Album Notes

If Bluegrass, Jazz, Blues, and Folk are all classic "american" music, then what better instrument on which to blend the styles than the 5-string banjo, another "american classic"? Banjoist Mike Stahlman has used his smooth, flowing style to produce a recording that blends Nat King Cole and Gershwin with Don Reno and classic fiddle tunes. The jazz standards sound as though they were written for the instrument, and the chord shadings so often associated with these tunes sound wonderful on the banjo. Mike's original compositions "Big Red" and the title tune "First Dance", round out this collection and sparkle with originality. Mike is joined by banjo legend Alan Munde, whose stylish jazz guitar backup and leads are a highlight of the recording, and mandolinist Dawn Watson adds a tastefulness and feel for the melodies that bring the tunes to life. Strong, classic fiddling by Mike Eisler, and the rhythm guitar of Rollie Champe and solid bass of DeeAnn Davidshofer round out this all star cast. They all play as though they were enjoying themselves and the recording has the feel of good friends having a good time together. A must for lovers of acoustic, instrumental music.