Three brand new bluegrass tunes that will remind you that this classic genre is alive and well

Sad Daddy – “Let’s Go Fishin'”
-I haven’t been fishin’ for a while, but it is one of those timeless activities that we could sing about a lot. This song has some lovely vocal harmonies, an outstanding banjo, and a nice meandering rhythm that, well, honestly makes me want to go fishing. There’s something about the tone of the lead singer that makes me believe every word of this song. It’s also a fantastic summer time tune. I don’t write enough about harmonicas, so let me just say the harmonica solo (that blends extraordinarily well with the fiddle) shows just how lovely these timeless sounds can still sound. This is more traditional bluegrass than newgrass and I’m absolutely here for it. It also feels like a simple easy going track, but it’s got layers of complexity. I am in awe of this recording and plan to keep it in my personal list.

Tan and Sober Gentlemen – “Rock Salt and Nails”
-From the opening line of this track, I knew it was going to be a banger. I know that’s not really the best word for a timeless bluegrass tune, but trust me. It is. And to save you all from having to search it yourself, this is not in fact a Tyler Childers song. It’s an old traditional that gets revised and reprised by artists in the current age. Let me tell you the Tan and Sober Gentlemen have captured a perfect balance of the original haunting viscerality of the song with this modern panache that makes it interesting all over again. Everything from the vocals to the string work is resonant on this track. It’ll make your toes tap while you nod your head and smile. I hate to highlight some elements and not all of them, but the banjo solo on the bridge is perhaps my favorite part of a track that I love from start to finish. Step right into this auditory sound machine and experience music that your great grandparents probably loved as well. It’s timeless in the best way possible.

Brendan Forrest – “Amabel Lee”
-This is an excellent song that feels like it could have been recorded in the 1940s, except that the production is top tier so it feels brand new. First let me clear up the spelling… it really is “Amabel,” I confirmed. I had heard the name “Annabelle” before, but never Amabel, but it’s accurate. Nevertheless, this is a wonderful love song that captures banjo, mandolin, guitar, and a captivating characteristic vocal. The fiddle work feels thoroughly bluegrass, but there’s a smoothness to it that seems like it’s informed by other styles (in a good way). The line about “Americana girls treat me fine” puts a smile on my face with every spin. Forrest has a dash of that “devil may care” flavor that I first admired with Tyler Childers. If you’re looking for a timeless bluegrass sound and exceptional production, definitely put this one on your playlist. I know I’ll be spinning this one all summer long (and probably longer).