Robinella & the CC String Band's self-titled first outing on Columbia travels with a grace and quiet confidence that parallels that of
Alison Krauss & Union Station. Led by
Robinella Contreras' effortless vocals, the band runs through some cleverly constructed tunes, like the lovely yet dark opener "Man Over" and the fluid "Mornin' Dove," both penned by
Contreras, as well as a really nice reading of the
Duke Ellington classic "Solitude." Electric guitarist
Steve Kovalcheck and fiddler
Billy Contreras' fantastic musical interplay is immediately apparent, arranged wonderfully, and threaded through the entirety of the album's lovely and comfortable Sunday afternoon feel alongside
Cruz Contreras' superb mandolin and the pulsating time-clock of
Taylor Coker's double bass. The group seamlessly references the languages of
jazz,
blues,
pop, and
bluegrass with a rare and impressive musicianship that comes across as a band having a great time playing together, which, of course, makes Robinella & the CC String Band a fun album to listen to. ~ Gregory McIntosh, All Music Guide
