Bluegrass Unlimited

Dick Staber
Of Graves and Epitaphs- REBA 5056

-Songs about death and dying have always had a place in country music.  From traditional ballads to modern compositions, the subject has always had its fascination and, as one of those things people do think about, it always will.  I guess that it was only a matter of time before someone put together an entire LP of songs from the morbid side of life.  But the results are find and, though the theme is tragedy, the listening is good.

Dick Staber has been involved in traditional music for a long time, most visibly as a member of Del McCoury's band, and his high lonesome experience serves him well in these performances which range from the full bluegrass treatment of songs like The Death of John Henry to the folk-like solo on Molly's Gone.  Staber's singing is convincing and full of feeling and the support her receives from back-up pickers and singers is suitable and sensitive.  Nice Work.  -FJG