“There are a number of things to recommend Larry Stephenson’s approach to traditional bluegrass, but above them all stands his high and lonesome lead vocals.” —All Music Guide

“Stephenson has honed his voice into one of the best bluegrass tenors this side of Bobby Osborne.”—Kansas City Star

“One of the finest singers in bluegrass” —Country Standard Time

Larry Stephenson delivers one of the finest albums of his career on his Compass Records debut WHAT REALLY MATTERS. The album comes on the heels of the Larry Stephenson Band’s win for Recorded Event of the Year at the 2010 International Bluegrass Music Awards for his bluegrass star-studded previous effort, 20th Anniversary, Stephenson again teaming up with co-producer Ben Surratt. Armed with 12 outstanding tracks and surrounded by a road-tested band that includes Kenny Ingram (banjo), Kevin Richardson (guitar) and Danny Stewart (bass), Stephenson’s distinctive vocals are showcased to great effect. Standout tracks include Jimmy Martin’s “Beartracks”, the title track and a spirited reworking of “Philadelphia Lawyer” featuring Sam Bush on fiddle and harmony vocals.

Big Train

Featuring 14 original tracks, Holler was recorded with Ray’s touring band at Echo Mountain Studios in Asheville, NC, the album features vocal cameos by Vince Gill, The Wood Brothers, Brandi Carlile, Phil Cook, Justin Vernon and Rutha Mae Harris of The Freedom Singers. On Holler, Amy’s band, Jeff Fielder (guitar and dobro), Matt Smith (pedal steel, dobro, guitar), Jim Brock (drums), Adrian Carter (fiddle and Teo guitar) and Kerry Brooks (bass and mandolin) welcome into the studio, the inimitable Alison Brown on banjo and Kofi Burbridge (Tedeschi Trucks Band) on keys, with Derek Trucks adding one of his signature, achingly beautiful leads on a song. With horns and strings often stepping in, Ray raises the bar on herself with a record that evolves from the restless dreams of Goodnight Tender.

Bondsman (Evening in Missouri)

Compass Records Group

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