This LP was, in effect, a 1973 reunion of three veterans of
the Kentucky Colonels, brothers
Clarence,
Roland, and
Eric White, along with banjo player
Alan Munde, a late substitution for
Herb Pedersen. Though the earlier group had been anything from a quartet to a sextet, the emphasis on these tracks is primarily on
Clarence White, featuring his lead vocals to complement his phenomenal guitar playing. Even though he had spent over six years away from bluegrass while touring and recording with the rock group
the Byrds,
White obviously hadn't lost his touch with the music that he grew up playing. The solos of
Roland White (on mandolin) and
Munde are exciting as well. This live album rekindles the magic of songs associated with
the Kentucky Colonels, particularly the uptempo "New River Train" (with several incredible breaks by
Clarence), "Alabama Jubilee," and "Rawhide" (which showcases
Roland and
Munde). Sadly, it was also among
Clarence White's last recordings prior to his death later that year after he and brother
Roland were hit by a drunk driver while loading gear after a concert. This release is beautifully packaged, with lots of photos and detailed liner notes by bluegrass expert
Jack Tottle. The only mystery is why Rounder allowed this excellent LP to lapse from print; it is long overdue to be reissued on CD.
–
Ken Dryden, Rovi