Blue Cactus Choir – Once In A Bluegrass Moon
*** (out of 4 stars)
Label: Porgy Records
Blue Cactus Choir offers a mix of bluegrass, light country, feel-good folk and that sort laid-back of music that seems vaguely familiar and oh-so-comforting to listen to. The essence and soul of the music are Katy Boyd and Marty Atkinson. Their new album is Once In A Bluegrass Moon and it is a generous collection of twenty-one tracks.
The album features some of the best players in Nashville, including: Gary Smith (piano), Justin Moses (banjo/fiddle/mandolin), Mark Fein (bass), Fats Kalpin (steel guitar), Thomm Jutz (guitar/keyboards), Lynn Williams (drums), and Steve Brewster (drums). Production values here are as consistent as the tight supporting band. Katy Boyd and Marty Atkinson are well-paired; Boyd is more sassy, Atkinson is more reserved. Together, they make a nice balance and their modern bluegrass musical sensibilities combine perfectly.
The casual approach to the songs delivered here is a refreshing contrast to the hard-sell of country radio these days. These are infectious songs that will make any lucky listener just feel good… and likely turn up the volume for a change.
Essential Downloads: “Avalon,” “Don’t Send Me Flowers,” “It’s Your Move,” “Sweet Love.”
To preview or purchase this album on Amazon, click here.
