Lovin' Of The Game
Lovin' Of The Game shows that technique and good songs can work together comfortably. Michael Cleveland plays with convincing force while giving melody and the other musicians their due. His fiddle connects traditional bluegrass, country and more adventurous instrumental writing. The record remains notably accessible. Its pleasure comes from ensemble playing and the clear shape of the tunes.
Thousand Dollar Holler begins at pace. Quick banjo and mandolin parts surround the fiddle, bringing energy from several directions immediately. Luxury Liner maintains that liveliness, with The Travelin' McCourys and their harmonies making an important contribution.
Billy Strings joins For Your Love. A distinctive bass opening leads towards increasingly forceful exchanges between guitar and fiddle. Each has room to impress separately, but primarily strengthens the movement of the whole. That makes the piece more appealing than a demonstration of speed alone.
Contact takes a more intricate route. Cleveland, Béla Fleck and Cody Kilby's lines fit closely together and give the rhythm considerable tension. A recognisable melody remains within that activity. The music stays a composition even when the performance becomes particularly demanding.
The country side has another strength. Vince Gill sings I Wish I Knew Now What I Knew Then with sad warmth, supported by dobro and fiddle. One Horse Town gives the desire to escape greater weight, with singing from Josh Richards and Charlie Starr.
The title track closes with Flamekeeper, returning attention to a lively bluegrass song. That balance is what makes Lovin' Of The Game convincing. These musicians can do plenty, but use their abilities to strengthen the writing. The record has momentum, feeling and melodies that work well beyond the technical details.
