As a recently inducted fan of bluegrass, I’ve come to know that the genre has the ability to turn the cheesy lyrics into an earnest and emotional tune. The Roys (brother and sister duo of Lee and Elaine) use their tight harmonies and musicianship to do just that. With a song like “Live the Life You Love” can only be saved in the right hands and it seems like Lee’s vocal (which sounds quite a bit like Ricky Skaggs) manages to transform corny lyrics into a heartfelt tune.
But Lee really shines on the tune “Those Boots.” In other hands, the tune would fall flat, but the tight harmonies and picking lift this song. I find myself humming along to the patriotic message. Can’t help but enjoy Lee’s ability to keep the lyrics simple and elevate the delivery.
Sister Elaine is certainly no slouch either. Her pristine country drawl is in full force throughout the record. Leadoff track “No More Lonely” features her bluegrass pipes. The tight harmony vocals provide the perfect backdrop for Elaine’s simple and clear delivery.
“No More Tears Left to Cry” has a bit more of a traditional bluegrass feel with prominent banjo intro and breaks. Elaine’s voice is again in the forefront and she belts out the notes after note over the tight arrangements.
The Roys also pulled in mandolin ace Doyle Lawson for “Mandolin Man.” There’s no doubt that the band knows how to pick and sing and have the transformative power of an seasoned set of bluegrass pickers.
About the author: Jeff is a teacher in the Boston area. When not buried correcting papers, Jeff can be found plucking various stringed instruments and listening to all types of americana music.