Flatpicker
Grant Central, 2025
8/10
This 7th album from the inimitable guitarist Tyler Grant welcomes Andy Thorn, Adrian ‘Ace’ Engfer, Erin Youngberg, Dylan McCarthy Andy Reiner and Michael Daves to the 13 animated tracks.
“The Wedge” opens with Grant’s precise fingerpicking in the warm climate, and “Been Too Long” follows with Thorn’s playful banjo and the harmony vocals from Daves making an impression.
Further along, “Sea Of Cortez” showcases meticulous progressions from Grant via the solo setting, while “Waning Moon” recruits Youngberg’s pretty harmony vocals and McCarthy’s cozy mandolin in the heartfelt album highlight.
“The Beholder” and “Where The Ocotillo Grows” exit the listen. The former is a poetic moment of rich song craft and eloquent storytelling, and the latter finishes with sublime string interaction and plenty of timeless, upbeat, bluegrass ideas that we could never tire of.
Grant has an impressive resume that includes touring with Abigail Washburn, Adrienne Young & Little Sadie and the Drew Emmitt Band. On his own, he tells relatable stories and his bluegrass vision is illuminated superbly thanks to the excellent players on hand.
Travels well with: Jordie Lane- Tropical Depression; Molecular Steve- Molecular Steve