* Steve Earle and the Del McCoury Band,
Bobby Reed
* 02/23/99
Chicago Sun-Times
(Copyright 1999)
* Steve Earle and the Del
McCoury Band, `The Mountain'
E-Squared Records
Rating: (STAR)(STAR)(STAR)(STAR)
* Five years ago, many people scorned Steve Earle as a has-been.
Now, with his substance abuse problems behind him, he's one of the
* most vital and respected musicians in country music. His new disc,
* "The Mountain," recorded with bluegrass' Del McCoury Band, is one of
the best albums of his career.
TD In stores today, the disc is a truly collaborative effort, with
Earle providing 14 original songs and the Del McCoury Band delivering
the musical fireworks. It's perhaps the most celebrated act in
* contemporary bluegrass. For the past decade, the group has
* practically owned the International Bluegrass Music Association
Awards, taking home 24 honors between 1990 and 1998.
Earle's last release, the critically acclaimed "El Corazon,"
* mixed elements of country, folk and rock; it's nominated in the
contemporary folk category at this week's Grammy Awards. In
* contrast, "The Mountain" is a pure bluegrass effort. It's one of
those rare recordings that will help popularize a traditional style
without offending many purists.
From Jason Carter's fiddle on the opening cut, "Texas Eagle," to
Sam Bush's mandolin on the closer, "Pilgrim," the disc offers
terrific playing throughout. The two instrumental cuts, "Connemara
Breakdown" and the Irish-influenced "Paddy on the Beat," demonstrate
why these musicians are sought-after at recording sessions and
* bluegrass festivals worldwide.
While Earle does a fine job singing lead, some of the finest
moments are vocal collaborations. McCoury's high lonesome tenor
blends nicely with Earle's laid-back baritone on "Leroy's Dustbowl
Blues." Their interplay of voices on "Carrie Brown" adds wonderful
tension to this tale of a man gunning down his rival over a woman's
affections.
"I'm Still in Love with You," a duet with Iris DeMent, is
another high point. Like much of the album, it has a modern feel,
yet it sounds like it could have been written 50 years ago. When a
songwriter is paired with a great band, the results can be
disappointing if the material is not up to par. The works here,
however, are worthy of these virtuosos' skills. Chicago is one of
Earle's biggest markets, and local fans will have a chance to see the
sparks fly firsthand March 25 when Earle and the Del McCoury Band
co-headline at the Vic Theatre.
