Northern California Bluegrass Society provides this CD review. You can find our most current reviews on our Message Board, where you can comment or query the author directly. Our monthly magazine, Bluegrass By the Bay also publishes them.

Songs:
Carolina Moonshiner
I'm Longing For My Old Virginia Home
Mansion on the Hill
Mama's Crown
Sweet Little Miss Blue Eyes
Steal Away and Pray
Unmerited Grace
Long Haul Truckin'
I'll Just Go Away
Footprints in the Snow
Lee Highway Blues
On My Mind
Crossing the River of Jordan
Cry From The Cross

Hay Holler Records
HH1361
PO Box 868
Blacksburg, VA 24063
2001

Personnel:
Tommy Sells mandolin
Teresa Sells guitar, vocals
Jimmy Trivette guitar, vocals
Larry Pennington banjo, vocals
Tom Brantley fiddle, vocals
Alan Mastin bass

The CD starts with a fast-paced, banjo driven song focusing on a moonshiner but of course with a message - "you'll never know the good life by living this way." The band focuses on songs from the good life filled with the traditions and themes of the mountain folks that are the founders of bluegrass. There are songs of the old home places and highways and the affirmation of strong faith gospel numbers. Started by Tommy and Teresa Sells 14 years ago, the group has had four previous albums. New lead singer and guitar player Jimmy Trivette's strong tenor adds that touch of authenticity and I've been there to all his lead vocals. Tom Brantley, Teresa Sells and Larry Pennington add their voices to the harmonies and their voices blend effortlessly in the gospel numbers such as "Steal Away and Pray" and "Crossing the River of Jordan." Larry's banjo work stands out in all the songs whether it's a fast pace or a gentle undercurrent to Teresa's "I'm Longing For My Old Virginia Home." !

Tom Brantley's fine fiddle work on "Lee Highway Blues" echoes the sounds of logging trucks and train whistles. The group is based in Virginia and perhaps we will someday have a chance to see their fine harmonies and instrumentals in person.