Adam-ondi Ahman

I was so impressed with this episode from the Mormon Channel's "History of Hymns" that I decided to scuttle my plan to rate previous music entries for now. The Hymn chosen for this broadcast is an example of pure Mormon thought entitled Adam-ondi Ahman. You can listen to the episode and get the song's history by clicking on the title of this post. This episode is a brilliantly executed thumb-nail sketch of early Mormon history from the Missouri period. It clearly demonstrates the vision and mission of the prophet Joseph Smith and how Mormons view the beginnings of the world and it's glorious destiny. It also shows clearly our understanding of Adam as our honored progenitor, his place in the coming millennial reign of Jesus Christ upon the earth and how we view with great anticipation the events to come as the earth is restored to its paradisaical condition. Although it's never mentioned, Tamilisa Miner is the narrator of History of Hymns. She is a gifted producer, actress and musician and is wonderful in this role. I also recognized Clive Romney adding to the narration. The musicians involved in this episode represent a potpourri of LDS musicians and stlyes. I'll attempt to list them all, hoping not to leave anyone out. They are in order of perormance:

Clayton Pixton
Geslison and Groberg
Small and Torres
Peter Breinholt
Merrill Jenson
Michael Dowdle
Fiddlesticks
Sarah Morgan
Roger and Melanie Hoffman
Lisa Arrington

Considering the variety of musical styles of these folks, it's amazing to me how tastefully it all comes together. The people responsible for this production are to be commended. The music is uplifting and reverent. None of the arrangements overpower the message of the hymn. I loved listening to every part of it. Of special note, if you know my tastes, is Peter Breinholt's stripped down acoustic rendering. He's never sounded better! Please set aside a half hour and give this a listen. You won't regret it!

Balsam Range

I recently added this Balsam Range album to my collection based on an Amazon.com recommendation. When you make a purchase they're set up to email you recommendations based on your preferences. I've found this a handy way to learn of new and /or unfamiliar music. While new to me, Balsam Range has been around for a few years. They have recently come to the attention of the IBMA with a nomination for emerging artist last year and 3 nominations this year for emerging artist, album of the year and song of the year with a win for song of the year for the title track of their newest album "Trains I Missed". This group is a five man band consisting of Marc Pruett (Banjo), Caleb Smith (Guitar), Darren Nicholson (Mandolin), Tim Surrett (Bass) and Buddy Melton (Fiddle). Their instrumental work can be fiery or tender and everything in between, but always first rate. Vocals are handled by all members with the exception of Marc Pruett. "Trains I Missed" features Buddy Melton doing an excellent job singing lead. One of the coolest things about Balsam Range is that while being a top flight Bluegrass band, their sound bridges both Blugrass and country resulting in music that can appeal to a much wider audience than typical Bluegrass groups such as The Del McCoury Band. Nothing against Del McCoury, I personally think he's great, but his audience isn't typical country. The title track, "Trains I Missed" is my personal favorite of all cuts. I'm a little less enthused about their Bluegrass gospel numbers, but everything else on the album is outstanding. I've decided to adopt a 5 star rating system for the albums I review and will plan on rating all formerly reviewed albums in my next installment. Rating for this album:

3.5 Stars

Here's  a live performance of "Trains I Missed":

Stephanie Mabey

I shoulda gotten onto this sooner, but it's still a good idea. Help Stephanie Mabey get her new album released. I loved her last week at the Rooftop Concert. Just click on her name at the top of this post to go to her website. Then follow the instructions. Don't you love creative ways to use the internet? This girl's on top of it!