Tall Fiddler
Compass, 2019
9/10
Michael Cleveland has had an impressive career so far, racking up 11 wins as Fiddler Player Of The Year, a Grammy Nomination, and has even performed for the United States Congress. On Tall Fiddler, his 5th solo album, the virtuoso is in great company as Sam Bush, Bela Fleck, Tim O’Brien and several others are also on hand.
From the opening track “Arkansas”, which puts Cleveland’s fiddle acrobatics on display- a common occurrence on the entire listen- we’re treated to one dynamic tune after another here.
Album highlights include the strategic mandolin and swift pace of “Beauty Of My Dreams”, the vocal harmonies and banjo fun of “Son Of A Ramblin’ Man”, and the soothing dobro of “Mountain Heartache”.
“Tarnation”, a duet with Bela Fleck, is hands down the best tune present, and emits plenty of power in an eclectic setting, though we certainly can’t not mention Cleveland’s cover of John Hiatt’s “Tennessee Plates”, which rocks with a bluegrass and country spirit that even brings in drums.
Cleveland surrounds himself with talent that can keep up with his level of skill, and it pays off with one of the most animated and exceptional bluegrass albums of 2019.
Travels well with: Tommy Emmanuel- The Journey;Old Salt Union- Where The Dog’s Don’t Bite