Album Notes

One of the most popular and enduring of southwest Virginia bluegrass groups, The Craig County Boys is this year (2005)celebrating their 35th anniversary of playing traditional bluegrass music together. They have a distinctive sound that derives from the powerful lead vocals of singer/songwriter/guitarist James Christian and the lyrical mix of their instrumentalists and harmonies. Other band members are Donnie Myers on mandolin, Jerry Steinberg on bass fiddle, Jerry Wood on his five-string fiddle, and Tim Rhodes on five-string banjo.

The band was co-founded in 1970 by James Christian and Donnie Myers, and they are now one of the most active bluegrass groups in the Roanoke, Virginia area. James is the only band member that still resides in rural Craig County, but they all still retain their love of the country life and values. The fact that the band has stayed together for so long is a testimony of their commitment to making music and to each other. This new album is more than a collection of songs; it is a collection of friends who take a down-to-earth approach to their music.

The song selection on this album shows off the band's versatility and talent. With two excellent original songs (the title song and "Home I Used to Call Mine") written by James Christian, old country favorites like "Mama Tried" and "Sixteen Tons", and fast numbers like "Washington County", the CD is sure to please every listener with even a passing interest in bluegrass.

A review by "oldesurberstation" Live365 Internet radio station (http://radio.surberstation.com)

This album contains a great selection of songs by the best traditional bluegrass band I ever heard. James Christian, lead vocalist and guitarist, sings with a voice that equals or exceeds the legendary Charlie Waller. And like Waller, James writes touching ballads. The band's instrumentalists are awesome and play at a speed that allow the listeners to enjoy James' voice and the words he sings. It's no wonder that this band is celebrating their 35th anniversary. Everyone who hears them loves their music so there are a few generations of fans. Only thing holding this group back from going pro is their love of the country life that inspires their music. I know you will love their new album and want several copies too for gifts.

--Jack Lewis