This Canadian collective formed in 2010 and this is their sophomore release. Their debut derived from a gospel repertoire, but here they explore a purer brand of old-time bluegrass.
They take their cues from rare or not so rare recordings by the likes of The Stanley Brothers, JD Crowe, Flatt and Scruggs, Hazel Dickens, Alice Gerrard and Johnny Cash.
They apparently also took on board several suggestions from friends Ry Cooder and Elvis Costello.
Recorded at Watershed Productions in Vancouver, they aimed for a natural live feel with a strong emphasis on vocal harmonies.
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There's a deliberate focus on “cheating and hurting” songs with titles like all Don't This Road Look Rough And Rocky and How Many Times Have You Broken My Heart.
Despite this, it all sounds disconcertingly gentle and homely.
The desperation that lies behind the lyrics is glossed over by smooth arrangements that turn the heartbreak and hard times into easy listening .
The High Bar Gang's website
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