Late Bloom
Self-Released, 2020
9/10
A Memphis bluegrass collective spearheaded by Michael Graber, the aptly titled Late Bloom (this is first record of all original material for the 50 year old) brings in esteemed musicians from outfits like Public Enemy, Rumpke Mountain Boys, Devil Train, and Dagnabbits to an album that is really about Graber’s entire existence.
“Drifting Away” starts the album with some bluegrass spirit as vocal harmonies and string acrobatics highlight the rural melodies, and “Devil’s Got Your Name” follows with a calmer approach of country ideas as plenty of melody flows amid the inviting banjo.
Near the middle, “Wind That Shakes The Cotton” displays some of the best singing on the album alongside dynamic interaction between the organic musicianship, while “When The Water’s This Low” benefits from precise finger picking in its soulful delivery that gets a little haunting, too. “Drinking 40s”, one of the most raw tunes, then sounds like it was performed after tossing a few back, but still retains plenty of fluid, bluesy prowess.
Towards the end, “Forgotten What I Call Home” recruits playful storytelling with some folk qualities in attendance and “Oaks & Pines” exits the listen with a bit of humor as Graber and company produce a varied and textured finish.
Graber has an impressive resume playing with the Grifters and Foy Vance, and he currently contributes to the Bluff City Backsliders, Zeke’s Three Generation Jug Rascals, and Damfool. Though he’s faced many hurdles in his life, his unwavering work ethic has always persevered and even if this album was released during quite possibly the most difficult time for a musician, I have little doubt it will resonate with anyone willing to give it a spin.
Travels well with: The Parson Red Heads- Lifetime Of Comedy; River Whyless- Kindness, A Rebel