At first, the question arises, “What is this?”

After a few moments, the answer comes. It is everything you’ve been wanting out of new music… but just didn’t realize it yet. It is kinetic, spirited, and sprawling, while being thoughtful, rooted, and incredibly precise. It’s a unique fusion of bluegrass and large orchestral jazz. The disc features arrangements by chief conductor Bob Mintzer and highlights the talents of renowned bluegrass artists, mandolinist Mike Marshall and violinist Darol Anger. So it’s the best of both worlds.

I’m writing of my response to the new album from the WDR Big Band. Titled Bluegrass, it is all of the above, and more.

TRACK LISTING:

1. Slip and Slide

2. Elzic’s Farewell

3. Down in the Willow Garden

4. Green Lawn

5. Emy in the Woods

6. Replace It All

7. In the Lion’s Den

8. Dexter

9. Borealis