The Gibson Brothers — In The Ground

Label: Rounder Records

A new release from the tightly harmonizing group known as The Gibson Brothers is always something to look forward to. With In the Ground, as usual, they do not disappoint. This recording consists entirely of original Gibson Brothers material and it is full of insight, instruction and invention. You’ll swear some of these new tunes were bluegrass standards, what with the way your foot will be tapping along and your voice will be singing along—albeit a syllable behind, as it pretends to know what must be a classic.

The Gibson Brothers aren’t exactly all siblings (just one pair), but they do achieve a close-knit harmony and uncanny group phrasing that usually only comes from a little genetics and a lot of church-going. The Gibson Brothers are: Eric Gibson (banjo, lead and harmony vocals), Leigh Gibson (guitars, lead and harmony vocals), Mike Barber (bass), Clayton Campbell (fiddle), Jesse Brock (mandolin, harmony vocals) and Rob Ickes (resophonic guitar).

The most compelling aspect of The Gibson Brothers is how utterly sincere their music is. They care about what they’re singing, playing and, most of all, what it means. This kind of genuineness can only be derived from honesty and integrity, musical and otherwise. And it sure sounds great.

Essential Downloads: “Highway,” “Making Good Time,” ‘I Found A Church Today.”

To preview or purchase this album on iTunes, click here.