Customer Reviews

Time Again

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This album more than lives up to the precedent set by Dirk's other solo albums on Rounder. He consistently sets the bar for "modern" old-time music--soulful, musical, and full of fresh ideas, yet always very true to the genre. This is an example of the best of what contemporary old-time music can be. Lovers of this style of music will enjoy the new takes on old favorites, and listeners who are new to the music will be entranced. Highly recommended.

An exemplary set of oldtime-ish mountain music, Appalachian tunes played informally and with a relaxed warmth that takes off much of the edge that many contemporary old-timey revivalists have adopted as a badge of honor. Powell's approach is accessible and inclusive: there's no denying the authenticity of these songs, yet listeners who are apprehensive towards or new to the genre won't have to push past abrasive antonalities or shrillness in order to appreciate the music's depth. Doubtless there are crusty purists out there who will grumble about Powell "softening" the music, but there's an equally strong argument to be made that this music was originally intended as entertainment, and that clinging to dissonance as a litmus test of purity is just a form of snobbishness and exclusion. Obviously, there's room for both approaches: I like hyperpurist old-timey music when I'm in the mood, but it's also nice to be able to put on a record or two that friends can listen to as well. Along with a sweet set of traditional tunes and original compositions, this disc is peppered with home recordings of Powell and his maternal grandfather, James Clarence Hay, picking and reminiscing together in 1990. Just the right touch to anchor this album is the past, while personalizing Powell's deep connections to his Kentucky roots.

I got my first exposure to Powell as a member of Joan Baez's stage band at a live performance. He impressed me enough to pick up this CD at the show. I honestly do not regret the decision at all. The music's smoothened traditionals and new music in the Appalachian vein. Interspersed with this are taped 'oral history' sound bites with Dirk's grandfather which are a lovely connection between the old music and the grandson's smoother treatment of it. The combination of song and reminiscence lends an openness to the recording that is reminiscent of being invited into Powell's living room for an evening of music.

I can definitely see why Ms. Baez picked Powell as her sideman. The music here is well-orchestrated, harmony is tight, and the sound quality of the recording is very good. Well worth a listen and if you are a fan of folk or 'new-grass', I think you'll enjoy the CD.

Rebecca Kyle, September 2009

This music will touch your soul. The music he plays really takes you to another place in time and the little clips of his Grandfather are very heartwarming. Dirk powell is my most favorite bluegrass performer. From the first song to the last if you love the clawhammer banjo and a smoking fiddle I guarantee that you will love this music. I've been listening to it for three years and I never get tired of it.

Wow. I had high hopes for tbis, but it is mediocre at best and unlistenable in a couple of places.