Customer Reviews

Wide Open

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

 

 

Although I am a long time fan of Mountain Heart, I was disappointed in the pace and scope of this album. I was looking forward to a great bluegrass album, and instead found a CD full of new acoustic country ballads and one or two average bluegrass songs. Overall the choice of songs seems to me to be a bit hit driven and country in flavor. It's over produced and overly polished.
I respect these men as musicians, and will continue to buy albums and support them as best as I can, but I hope their next album is a little more traditional and hard driving. Don't get me wrong, there is NOTHING wrong with experimentation, and there is certainly nothing wrong with striving for a well produced album, but great albums need it balance...to much polish and you cover up the heart and soul of Mountain Heart.

I have been a long time fan of Mountain Heart, have all of their CD's, and have seen them on many occasions. I was disappointed in this new album, looking for some great new bluegrass hits. Unfortunately, I felt this CD seemed to be more of a "New Age" CD that was not typical bluegrass at all. It seems they are trending more toward the loud, rock-type feeling and away from the traditional bluegrass.

I just don't know how much better this group can get. I don't go more than a day or two without finding this disc in my truck, or unwinding with it after work on my iPod. That these boys were pretty much snubbed by the same ol' s*** thats become the IBMA should not detract from the fact that this is a truly magnificent offering and the best bluegrass IMHO that 2006 has to offer.

I love the new album from Mountain Heart. They are such a groundbreaking band and keep their music fresh. I have all their albums and I'm never worried about buying the same one twice. Each CD is a little different than the last. In a world of complacency and playing it safe when it comes to bluegrass music,these guys are a breath of fresh air. Congrats on a wonderful new recording and keep 'em coming!

I first saw Mountain Heart at the National Folk Festival in 2005. I have quickly become a fan of their music and this new CD does not disappoint. It's hard to keep still when you listen to the fast paced blue grass tunes such as aptly titled track, "Wide Open" and "I'm just here to ride the train". The fast tracks are tempered by several touching songs, "I remember you" is particularly beautiful. You will not be disappointed in this CD or any of their others for that matter. And if you get a chance, see them in concert. You come away with a whole new appreciation of their music. They have amazing energy and stage presence, you can tell they are having a good time and it makes you do the same.

I have seen these guys live several times and they combine soulful lyrics with "wide open" playing. The talent of this group is phenomenal. Jason Moore on the bass sets the pace for this group. I feel an IBMA award brewing for this album. I can't wait to see them again live on March 17th.