Search - Seldom Scene :: Act Three

The Seldom Scene Repeat Their Formula for Success

Steve Vrana | Aurora, NE | 06/03/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Seldom Scene returned to the studio on July 15 and 21, 1973, to record their third album in less than two years. The attitude in the studio must have been don't mess with a successful formula. Like the two previous albums, this is a mixture of traditional and contemporary. They cover the Bill Monroe number "Little Georgia Rose," a loving version of Merle Haggard's "Sing Me Back Home," and a stellar version of the Bob Wills instrumental "Faded Love."



The album opens with a short (less than a minute and a half) version of "Chim-Chim-Cher-Ee" that features only John Duffey on lead guitar, Mike Auldrige on Dobro, and Tom Gray on bass. They also perform two new songs by Phil Rosenthal, "Willie Boy" and "Muddy Water." [Rosenthal would later replace guitarist John Starling when Starling returned to his medical practice in 1977.] They also perform a group arrangement of "Rider," a song that had long been a staple in the Grateful Dead's live shows. And with a playing time of 5:23, it is by far the longest track on the album. "Rider" is also notable for the use of outside musicians for the first time on a Seldom Scene recording. Ricky Skaggs plays fiddle, and he also plays fiddle and viola on "Sing Me Back Home." Another guest musician is guitarist Clayton Hambrick who plays lead on the Starling original "Mean Mother Blues."



In addition to each member being a master of his instrument, another component to the band's success is their tight three-part harmonies. If you are looking for an excellent introduction to the Seldom Scene, any of their first three albums is a great way to start. [Running Time - 33:25] VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED"

Great bluegrass

R. Heiser | Portland, ME USA | 07/04/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Seldom Scene is the premier bluegrass group. Their craftmanship is almost on another planet. This album/CD turned me on to bluegrass music. Little Georgia Rose and Another Lonesome Day are great tunes played by great musicans. 'Dead fans will like Seldom Scene's version of Rider. Overall a great CD."