Search - Dan Crary, Lonnie Hoppers :: Dan Crary & Lonnie Hoppers and Their American Band

These days, with so many bluegrass outfits offering polished performances of songs by "professional" writers, it's refreshing to hear a plain old, unpretentious, old-school bluegrass album. Such is the case with this labor of love by flatpicking guitar standout Dan Crary and banjo man Lonnie Hoppers, a former Bill Monroe sideman. The playing here is loose and lively and the whole album has a charismatic light-hearted vibe. The repertoire balances bluegrass staples with a pair of gospel songs and a few welcome honky-tonk numbers, including Merle Haggard's "Good Old American Guest" and Hank Williams's "Lonesome Whistle." Although the vocal performances leave a bit to be desired, Crary's crafty hot licks, Hoppers's sprite banjo work, and fine support from their American band more than atone. --Marc Greilsamer