Cadillac Sky

I don't go to happy hour showcases as much as I should, but I was excited about Cadillac Sky at the Mercy Lounge last night. Hosted by Skaggs Family Records and well-attended, the party went as hoped for; the band smoked the place. It's a five-piece bluegrass band from Texas with a debut album out yesterday called "Blind Man Walking." I hate their website, but I love their CD, and I loved their show.

The challenge in modern bluegrass, a field crowded with talent, is to etch out a distinctive sound, and C-Sky, as I'll call them only for blogging convenience, has undoubtedly done so. The sharp end of the spear is the vocal attack of lead singer Bryan Simpson and the wonderfully named Mike Jump, who also played some sharp guitar. They hit a chorus in the song "Born Lonesome" that is as memorable as any hook I can think of. It's power-grass that raises the bar without selling out tradition. Only Mountain Heart really is near them in texture and drive, and I'd gladly see a long double bill.

Ricky Skaggs, bluegrass legend and label honcho, strapped on his mandolin and joined his new signees on stage for a song and I think a lick or two of Big Mon. The maddeningly invsible Sonya Isaacs appeared like a vision and sang goosebump harmony with Jump on the album's prettiest song, "Homesick Angel." If I had a label I'd sign Sonya Isaacs in a heartbeat. The band gave little trophies to their many other guests and to Byron House who played bass on the album while the band was mid-doghouse. Cool night. It's a band that I'd take any music fool to see whether they thought they liked bluegrass or not.

The next big debut for what is turning out to be a hot run of young bluegrass - the Infamous Stringdusters in March. These are just amazing bands and projects. Who will be the next American Bluegrass Idol? Ask me in September.

Comments

[Rparker]

I was @ the show as well and I can say without a doubt it was amazing! These guys are bringing a new sound and feel to bluegrass which is much appreciated!