Grey
Fox Bluegrass Festival: The past and Future of Acoustic Music
By Ross Rice
In
fact, for much of the music, the term “bluegrass” may
seem a little archaic; perhaps it’s more accurate to call
it “acoustic music,” an appellation many of the artists
seem to favor. That doesn’t mean there isn’t a genuine
reverance for the roots, though. And the roots are well represented
here.
Where to even start? Best to go with the Dry Branch Fire Squad,
25 years now the Grey Fox host band, performing all four days. It’s
probably fair to say that they embody the tradition of bluegrass
in all its glory, as well as country gospel and mountain music.
Ron Thomason’s weather-beaten back-country vocal feels just
right over the effortlessly honest picking, providing a nice authentic
touchstone from whch to enjoy the breadth and scope of the festival.
Those who get there early, and have a good spot for Thursday will
be glad they did. Tony Trischka will be featuring a “double
banjo bluegrass spectacular,” which will no doubt raise an
eyebrow or two, but after hearing the mp3 thoughtfully provided
by Grey Fox’s website (nice job), well, if anyone can do it,
you better believe Mr. Trischka can. Winnipeg’s own The Duhks
stretch the boundaries, adding hand percussion into the mix, but
still maintain a solid grounding in folk tradition. Doyle Lawson
& Quicksilver bring it back to the hills, with impeccable high
lonesome harmonies.
Bela
Fleck makes a guest appearance with the Sparrow Quartet, where,
with songwriter/banjoist Abigail Washburn (also of Uncle Earl),
timeless sounding tunes with tasteful interplay unfold.CONTINUE....
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