|
Review from Bluegrass Unlimited, August, 2009.
"Some Assembly Required is a quartet from Richmond, Virginia, with a unique approach to bluegrass music. This 11-song project is a blending of familiar numbers such as "Red Clay Halo" and "Wrong Road Again" along with original pieces composed by band member Leo Szydlowski. The band's performances are flawless, as demonstrated on "Just Like Candy," Hank Williams' "There'll Be No Teardrops Tonight," and Gordon Lightfoot's "Go My Way." One particular highlight is Lynn Stephens' emotional version of "Footprints." "Tools Of The Trade" is contemporary bluegrass performed with style from a group that displays a truly creative spirit."
To listen to this CD, there are no tools necessary; maybe some duct tape, a little WD-40 and SOME ASSEMBLY REQUIRED.
Lead singer Lynn Stephens, Poquoson, VA, is the 2006 & 2008 Virginia State Champion female vocalist. Lynn plays rhythm guitar and sings lead and harmony. Her 2008 competition song is “This Little House Of Mine” and her 2006 competition piece is “Footprints”. Give them a listen and you will know why she won these awards. Leo Szydlowski, Chesterfield, VA, won the Song Writer’s competition at the Dream Acre’s Music Festival in October 2008. The winning song, “Just Like Candy” is a
true story about his first tobacco chewing experience with his grandfather and is included on the CD. Leo plays guitar, mandolin and sings lead and harmony. Ernie Freeby, Aylett, VA, contributes vocals and is as solid a bass player as you would find anywhere. He is the glue that holds it together. Doug Cherrington, Quinton, VA, is a superb instrumentalist and vocalist. Doug plays guitar, mandolin and banjo. He is a full time musician and an instructor at Harrison Music in Richmond,
Virginia.
“From the first moment I heard Some Assembly Required, I felt they produced a heartfelt, vibrant and fresh approach to the music. With respect for tradition and an eye on the future, it truly makes for great results every time, every listen. You will always hear something new and different with every performance, guaranteed.”
CHRIS GOWEN, Station Manager WSVS AM 800, The Country Legend, Crewe, VA
For further information about the band, please visit
http://assemblyrequiredbluegrass.com/
|