Leave The Porch Light On
Pinecastle, 2021
8/10
Listen to Leave The Porch Light On
The bluegrass singer-songwriter and guitarist Kim Robins joined forces with the esteemed Clay Hess to produce and play on this new collection of bluegrass tunes, and there’s plenty of guests on hand to illuminate the songs penned by Paul Breedlove, Mark Brinkman and Alan Johnston, among others.
“Johnny Clay” starts the listen with precise banjo from Clay Hess and mandolin thanks to Duane Estep, as Robins’ inimitable pipes guide the cautious bluegrass opener, and “I’ll Always Be A Gambler” follows with Kyle Estep handling lead vocal duties in a smooth, melodic climate that showcases Josh Woods’ banjo prowess.
Moving towards the middle, the emotive and sublime “Memories Of An Angel” benefits much from Brennan Hess’ meticulous bass amid the heartfelt spirit, while “Annalisa” flows with gorgeous strings and Estep’s expressive vocals complementing Tim Crouch’s lovely fiddle. “You’re In The Lord’s Hands” then steps into deeper gospel territory alongside soft instrumentation and Estep and Robins’ cozy harmonizing.
Nearing the end, “Wind In The Valley” places Clay Hess on vocals in the dreamy, poetic delivery, and “I Won’t Have A Prayer” exits the listen with her band, 40 Years Late, blending their strings into a radiant and sophisticated finish.
An album recorded during the pandemic, Robins had to modify the recording process, but that allowed for so much outside talent to be present, and it makes for a very mature and memorable contemporary bluegrass listen.
Travels well with: Deeper Shade Of Blue- 20; Lorraine Jordan And Carolina Road- I Can Go To Them