The first few notes of a Kruger Brothers' song usually have the effect of putting a smile on my face. My first listening of Between the Notes was no different in that regard. The instrumental pieces are familiar territory (if you know the Krugers) with perhaps a greater emphasis on 'modal,' 'minor,' and other classical-sounding elements. The production value of the sound itself has been refined yet again – which is saying a lot! The opening instrumental “Deena” showcases premonitions of a non-traditional (in bluegrass terms) approach to this album. Yet songs like “When I'm Dead My Dearest,” fashioned after a poem written by 19th century poet Christina Rosetti, and the closing number “Jack of the Wood,” a rollicking bluegrass-style breakdown, continue to tie the group to the styles of Appalachian roots music.
What I probably enjoy most about this album is how much more the personality and experiences of the musicians come out in their self-written work. I have looked forward to hearing “Watch As the Clouds Roll By” - a long time Kruger concert staple – on an album, because it embodies this trio so well. In addition, the songs “Round and Round,” “Winter Storms,” and “Jason” feel more like their own creations and make me curious as to what experiences lie behind the lyrics. It is the ability to write and perform music that showcases their personality, which makes the Kruger Brothers so endearing. The moment you hear it, you know it is them.
As with their previous release, The Suite Volume One, many of the songs on Notes are recorded as medleys, seamlessly and elegantly transitioning from one song to another, which alternate between instrumental tunes and songs with lyrics. This not only creates a 'live' feel to the CD, as if you are sitting in on a personal concert, but also makes it obvious that many of these songs are well-incorporated parts of the group's repertoire. I appreciate when musicians allow songs the time to ripen, only placing them on an album when the time is right.
Clearly the musicianship available to this trio has not reached its peak. And yet pieces such as “Beautiful Nothing” remind me that no matter how talented the musician, good music can be simple too. (I would recommend listening to that song while sitting quietly in your living room, it is about as relaxing as anything I can think of).
In general, if you enjoy the classical, jazz, and other non-traditional influences of the Kruger Brothers' recent work, I would highly recommend this album. I look forward to the rare chance of seeing them again in concert. For now, Between the Notes will be enjoying at least several more months in my CD player.
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