The Foggy Hogtown Boys And Ivan Rosenberg

Toronto, ON bluegrass heroes the Foggy Hogtown Boys joined forces with American dobro virtuoso Ivan Rosenberg for this charming disc. The sextet reportedly aimed for a '70s Yankee-grass aesthetic, and their slightly retro take on the form includes some old-time country and folk elements. All members take lead vocals on different tracks, ensuring a nice variety. Tunes given the fresh Foggy treatment include Harlan Howard's great "Busted" (a highlight), Woody Guthrie's "New York Town," Ralph Stanley's dark "River Underground" and traditional English folk ballad "Low And Lonesome Sea." Guitarist Chris Coole wrote "bluegrass thriller" tale "Cold Creek," while Rosenberg contributed a couple of original tunes (including pretty instrumental "Ishler's Waltz") and informative liner notes. The vocal and instrumental work throughout adheres to the very high FHB standards. That said, the closing track is the weakest offering. "Honey Buckets" is a Rosenberg-written and sung ode to folk fest portaloos, but the slightly inane ditty would have been better set aside for folk fest performances only. However, it's a minor flaw in a fine disc.