Fresh Pickles
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
A very adventurous project, Chris Castino (of The Big Wu fame) aligns himself with Chicken Wire Empire to reimagine 11 of his tracks bluegrass style, and he’s got a healthy amount of guests with him for the occasion.
“Kangaroo” opens the listen with intricate finger picking, as a very warm and playful bluegrass setting unfolds, and “Red Sky” follows with flowing banjo thanks to Jon Peik and meticulous fiddle from Sam Bush alongside Castino’s expressive singing.
In the middle, the agile “Minnesota Moon” is full of cozy melody and frisky string interaction, while “Texas Fireball” recruits Keller Williams (vocals) and Andy Hall (dobro) for the swift and meticulous, rural energy. “Rhode Island Red” then continues the state theme with soothing vocal harmonies amid the quick pickin’ fun.
“The Ballad Of Dan Toe” lands near the end and showcases Peter Rowan (vocals) and Jerry Douglas (dobro) for the subime musicianship and vivid storytelling, and “Irregular Heartbeat” finishes the listen with a hypnotic appeal and some country and folk ideas present and appreciated.
A very colorful and exciting way to rework already great songs, there’s certainly a festive demeanor to the occasion, as well as some well done balladry, and let’s hope this isn’t the last time Castino will collaborate with Chicken Wire Empire, cause it makes for a real fun listen.
Travels well with: Old Salt Union- Where The Dogs Don’t Bite; Them Coulee Boys- Die Happy