Just A Little Rain
Bonfire, 2020
9/10
Ray Cardwell impressed me on 2019’s Stand On My Own with his impressive vocal range and timeless songwriting prowess, and this follow up continues his exceptional delivery with 10 new tracks that were inspired by his many decades of touring and performing.
Cardwell starts the listen with the vocally expressive and rhythmic “The Grass is Greener”, as backing vocals highlight a very soulful bluegrass experience, and “Standing On The Rock” continues the warm setting with string acrobatics in the highly melodic delivery.
Further along, “Born To Do” displays meticulous instrumentation from Cardwell as harmonizing vocals work well in the soaring atmosphere, while “Just A Little Rain” moves cautiously, where beauty and playfulness collide with rural sensibilities. “Rising Sun”, a particularly noteworthy song, then benefits from expressive storytelling as the players showcase precise interplay.
Close to the end, “Thief In The Night” recruits some country nods in the smooth, gospel setting, and “Constant State Of Grace” exits the listen soft and sublime with pretty balladry that puts Cardwell’s stunning pipes on display.
This is Cardwell’s 3rd album, and it’s just as strong as his previous efforts. He’s accompanied by Danny Roberts on mandolin, Adam Haynes on fiddle, Tony Wray holding down banjo and acoustic guitar and Jaelee Roberts offering tenor vocals, and together they create some fine Americana, country, bluegrass sounds that you’ll be compelled to revisit again and again.
Travels well with: Phil Leadbetter & The All Stars Of Bluegrass- Swing For The Fences; Robert Hale- Blue Haze