AMG Review of Classic Bluegrass

Zac Johnson
All Music Guide

It would be impossible to pinpoint the high point of Del McCoury's career in bluegrass for two reasons: one being that he has been so consistently good in everything he's done, and the other being that he seems to incredibly keep getting better and better, making any speculation prone to revision. That being said, this compilation of his recordings for Rebel Records from 1974-1984 showcases one of bluegrass' great voices at one of the many peaks of his career. The album is set up without chronology in mind, but the change from one lineup of the Dixie Pals into another isn't noticeable, and the whole thing flows quite naturally from beginning to end. High harmonies and excellent musicianship have long been McCoury trademarks, and these recordings are especially interesting where they showcase the first appearances of mandolin player Ronnie McCoury, who would eventually go on to become one of the most celebrated pickers in bluegrass. Longtime fans of the Del McCoury Band's work will want to complete their collection with this album, and recent converts to the man would be well-suited to start their collections here.