JOE ROSS: Festival Time Again

Joe Ross

Festival Time Again

© 2006 Joe Ross (853378000239)

CD IN STOCK. ORDER NOW. Will ship immediately.

SPECIAL: 30% discount if you buy more than one copy of it today!

(About MP3 downloads at CD Baby)

All-original, eclectic bluegrass penned by Oregon multi-instrumentalist Joe Ross & performed w/ stellar musicians in Bluegrass/Americana genres (James King Band, Ron Stewart, Tim Crouch, Scott Vestal, Randy Kohrs, Radim Zenkl, Bryan Bowers & others)

notes

Joe Ross’ writing - and this project that so beautifully showcases that prolific talent — typifies the unique, wildly varied bluegrass from the Northwest. Take a glimpse at the pickers he’s gathered... The James King Band, Ron Stewart, Tim Crouch, Scott Vestal, Randy Kohrs, Bryan Bowers, Radim Zenkl & many others. They’re distinguished, top-notch players hailing from all over the geographical — & instrumental — map.

"Many A Blue Moon" sounds like it came straight from a lost 8-track under the grubby bus seat of Jimmy Martin. The girl is gone & the old boy is crying, all to the ultra-traditional drive of the great Ron Stewart’s fiddle & banjo... Four seconds later, equally great talent from the distant fringe of bluegrass — Radim Zenkl’s whistle & Bryan Bowers’ autoharp — are called together for a 5-minute ode to a half-dozen carefully enumerated academic philosophies. Bluegrass whiplash, you bet! Welcome to Oregon! What a trip!

Given Joe’s place at the center of Northwestern bluegrass, it’s little wonder that the common thread of his writing is its variety. The influences show. "Blood Red Roses" calls to mind the powerful war-time laments of the Stanleys or Louvins. Pure bluegrass. But "Pitch Black By The Ton," a topical masterpiece, owes more to Woody Guthrie than to Bill Monroe. So is Joe just a folksinger?

Hardly. Change gears again: the instrumental "HotQua Nights" tips its picker’s cap more pointedly to Django Reinhardt than to Earl Scruggs — but with a hammered dulcimer? Django and Earl would be puzzled but pleased. Joe’s children song "Good Deeds" would make John McCutcheon proud. Rounding toward the roots again, "My Home in Old Virginia," featuring guest vocalist James King, reminds us of exactly how solidly grounded Joe’s songs grow in traditional bluegrass.

A serious songwriter whose songs define his life writes for eternity - for the dream that somebody, somewhere, sometime, will keep singing his songs... Will Joe's songs gain such a life of their own? I'm certain of it. I like to imagine, sometime in 2106, some old-timey space child loading her banjo & cooler in the back of a hydrogen-powered jet, heading out into the stratosphere, whistling those old standards from a century before, from "Festival Time Again."

And I like to imagine you whistling them, too. -- Bill Jolliff, Newberg, Oregon

********

Joe writes and sings great songs. His stories put pictures in my mind. His bluegrass songs have that good drive.
-- Pete Goble, Rockwood, Michigan

The terrific musicians' imaginations flourish... delightful, enjoyable project worthy of any serious tunesmith. You’ll like this part of Joe's heart.
-- Barry R. Willis, author of "America's Music: Bluegrass"

Joe’s a truly inspired writer. His pieces are interesting, entertaining, enjoyable. Joe gets an A for this album.
-- Gracie Muldoon, Station Manager, WORLDWIDEBLUEGRASS.COM

Northwest bluegrass has a strong traditional strand. There's also easy comfort with new approaches, eclectic material, and wildly different influences.
-- Bill Jolliff, Nwbluegrass Yahoogroup

"FESTIVAL TIME AGAIN" FEATURES:
** Joe Ross - Lead & harmony vocals, guitar, mandolin, hammered dulcimer, bass, keys
** Bryan Bowers - Autoharp
** Al Brinkerhoff - Resophonic guitar
** Tim Crouch - Fiddle
** Mitsuki Dazai - Koto
** Ben Greene - Banjo
** Adam Haynes - Fiddle
** Jason Heald - Bass
** James King - Guitar, lead vocal
** Randy Kohrs - Harmony vocals
** Jerry McNeely - Bass
** Kevin Prater - Mandolin, guitar
** Jesse Scriven - Guitar
** Ron Stewart - Banjo, fiddle
** Scott Vestal - Banjo
** Radim Zenkl – Pennywhistle

ABOUT THE ARTIST - Originally from Virginia, Joe Ross was raised a "military brat" overseas in Japan. Performing and recording on electronic organ in professional rock and soul bands during his school years, he eventually took up bluegrass music after hearing it on the Far East Network. His first bluegrass group, The High Mountain Ramblers, was formed during the 1970s at the University of Oregon. He then played and recorded with Sagegrass and Cold Thunder during the 1980s and 1990s.

Today, no one can resist the urge to tap their toes and sing along when multi-instrumentalist Joe Ross is "edu-taining" with his highly interactive and fast-paced solo Roots of Bluegrass musical show for all ages. The evolution of Celtic and Bluegrass music is traced from the British Isles to today as such instruments as banjo, mandolin, guitar, concertina, hammered dulcimer, and autoharp are demonstrated.

Joe and his wife Kathleen, a classical harpist, also perform at many weddings and special events. Joe is a member of Northwest on Tour, a juried artist roster. At present, The Joe Ross Band is a highly-charged and sought-after group that presents classic bluegrass, jazz, swing, gospel and original material. Their great diversity and innovation take them to many of the top music festivals and events throughout the west. Joe Ross' six albums cover many genres from bluegrass to Celtic, sea songs to children's music.

Besides music, Joe also offers a program called "Folk Tales of Old Japan," using a traditional Japanese storytelling technique with a wooden story box and large illustrated cards. He is also a noted music journalist with over 1,000 feature stories and reviews published by national periodicals and websites.

reviews

Please log in to review this album.

  • Upbeat, Fresh, Unique
    author: Bob Cherry

    Festival Time Again is the latest album by Joe Ross. Ross in one of those acoustic musicians west of the Mississippi and north of the Mason Dixon Line that knows what bluegrass is. By west and north, I mean way west and far north. In the land of the Cascades in the southwest part of Oregon in America's northwest. Being a part of a different region lends itself to different styles of acoustic and bluegrass music. This album touches many of the corners of the bluegrass continent. From hard-core traditional styles in "My Home in Old Virginia" and the lost-love tale of "Many a Blue Moon" to a Calypso beat in "Good Deeds," you will experience a world of music on Festival Time Again. If you're one who also enjoys a bit of rag-time Dixie with a 1890's western swing style, then "Goldfield" will also touch you with the masterful fiddle and mandolin blending their own story. What makes this a unique album is that Ross is not only a wonderful guitar picker but an exciting songwriter as well. This album features a dozen songs written and co-written by Ross. The lyrics are profound and sing of life's pathways. "Pitch Black by the Ton" speaks of mining two miles down. "Desert Grave" weaves a story about an early unknown pioneer and the mystery of his tale in passing the grave on one of the west's Boot Hills. The stories on this collection speak of life in the past, present and possibly the future. The guest musicians on this album all lend a bit of their own flair to the overall sound. Artists backing multi-instrumentalist Ross (guitar, keys, hammered dulcimer, mandolin) include James King (guitar), Kevin Prater (guitar, mandolin), Tim Crouch (fiddle), Adam Haynes (fiddle), Ron Stewart (banjo, fiddle), Scott Vestal (banjo), Ben Greene (banjo), Byran Bowers (autoharp), Al Brinkerhoff (resophonic guitar), Jason Heald (bass), Jerry McNeely (bass), Mitsuki Dazai (koto) and Radim Zenkl (pennywhistle). This album is as rich in variety as the artists noted, resulting in an album that is a pleasure to listen to. The music is up-beat, fresh and unique. This well rounded album is emotional, entertaining and just plain fun. It's tales of life are full of life with lively instrumentation. Take a trip out to the northwest and experience a new world of acoustic and bluegrass music with Festival Time Again. Bob Cherry, Cybergrass - www.cybergrass.com

  • Joe sings from the heart
    author: Todd Clinesmith

    I will give my honest opinion. I have not enjoyed much bluegrass from new bands lately since it all kinda gets a little repetitious and the same themes are done over and over. Joe’s song writting is very good . The things he sings about are from the heart. I liked the old dan and little ann tune. I really enjoyed it and congrats to Joe on his well produced recording.

  • well-put-together package
    author: Tina Aridas

    I listened to Festival Time Again right after listening to some of Tom T & Dixie Hall's songs, and it struck me that Joe Ross' story songs could easily be compared to those of that well-respected songwriting team. That's quite an accomplishment! In addition, I know first-hand how difficult it is to write about topics that are very current and still fresh in our minds -- I've tried it and seem to always have to put the attempts aside -- yet Joe managed to do it with "Pitch Black by the Ton." And kids' songs? I hope "Good Deeds" becomes a standard on children's albums in the future. Altogether, a well-put-together package -- from recording quality, to the graphics and the song notes. Tina Aridas, Mountain Redbird Music

  • Many different textures and flavors, like ice cream
    author: Nancy Montgomery

    Reviewing a bluegrass album is sort of like reviewing, say, ice cream. Yes, there are different textures and flavors, but mostly ice cream is, well, ice cream. And bluegrass music is kindred to that same feeling. What can you possibly be critical of? There’s such purity to this genre of music that anyone who plays it has usually been doing so for most of their life, and continuing down a generational road of love and joy for the simple pleasure of playing music. Such is the feeling one gets when listening to artist Joe Ross’s CD, Festival Time Again. Although I felt the audio quality and mix were weak, it doesn’t deter from Mr. Ross’s palpable pleasure that he is doing what he loves most - playing and writing his own music. Each track is a statement to his musical skills. He plays guitar, mandolin, hammered dulcimer and bass. And as mentioned in the previous paragraph he is the sole writer on every song-the exception being Goldfield-co-written with Bill Blackburn. Instrumentals are woven thru out his formidable songs. Songs that honor amongst others, our soldiers in Iraq-Blood Red Roses and Pitch Black By The Ton-a tribute to the coalminers that died in that horrific mining accident in West Virginia last year. Another stand out is the sweet sentiment of Good Deeds-a message to each and everyone of us of what our world could be like if we all performed good deeds for one another. Yes indeed! Its difficult to critique bluegrass music. Honest, pure and ultimately having no deep angst to live thru and suffer with, its simply meant to be played and appreciated for what it is. Festival Time Again is that kind of record.

  • a gem
    author: George

    "Festival Time Again" is a gem. I really like the music on it, and, along with the quality of work Joe put into this project, I am equally impressed with the list of featured artists who joined Joe. Thank you for the great music. Look for it on our playlists soon. Sincerely, George Fair President, Classic Heartland/Heartland Public Radio george@classicheartland.com PO Box 416, Branson, MO 65615-0416

  • This CD clearly establishes Joe Ross as one of the more prolific composers in co
    author: Les McIntyre

    Many readers will recognize Joe Ross for his numerous articles penned for bluegrass publications. This latest CD release clearly establishes him as one of the more prolific composers in contemporary bluegrass music. Accompanying himself on guitar, bass, and mandolin, he is joined by several guest musicians including Randy Kohrs (resonator guitar and vocals), Ron Stewart (banjo and fiddle), and Bryan Bowers (autoharp). With the exception of "My Home In Old Virginia" (sung by James King), Joe sings lead on the seven other vocals featured in this collection. The title song captures the ambiance and spirit of a typical bluegrass festival. Some of the eleven other numbers are "Good Deeds," "Philosophy," and "Blood Red Roses," dedicated to America's armed forces. One of the more emotional moments occurs on "Pitch Black By The Ton," which is about the recent Sago Mine disaster in West Virginia. Anyone who encounters "Festival Time Again," should not be surprised when other bluegrass musicians clamor to record the compositions of Joe Ross. (Les McIntyre, Bluegrass Unlimited magazine)

  • Awesome musical experience!
    author: Johnny Pearce - Bluegrass Now

    Joe Ross, best known for his contributions to bluegrass in written form, has a genuine way with words. To those of us who like different genres of music, this is a special treat as these guys really entertain. Joe mixes it up well, and the results seem well worth the risk. There is something for the traditional fans to enjoy and for the more adventuresome. An awesome musical experience! Johnny Pearce, Pearland, TX jrp1229@sbcglobal.net

  • Very enjoyable
    author: Marvin O.

    Very enjoyable! The picking is superb - what a great lineup Joe Ross has. And his songwriting is excellent. …No doubt Joe will be getting requests to record some of his songs. Marvin O'Dell, The Grass is Bluer, Classicheartland.com, Goodyear, AZ. MEOTEO@aol.com

  • I like the drive
    author: Robin

    Hit The Big Wide Strum, Pal! Thanks for the CD. What I like is the drive; instruments are played with precision and energy. I'm particularly fond of breakdowns, instrumentals, as they really get toes tappin'! A couple of the tracks sound like they have a celtic flare to them, and I like when genres are mixed and tradition is pushed a little past its comfort level. Makes for a fresh and original sound. Good work. I look forward to listening again, a little closer this time. Robin Eriksson “Hit the Big Wide Strum, Pal!” Bluegrass Radio on CKUW 95.9 FM, Tuesdays, 4-6 PM www.ckuw.ca Room 4CM11 – 515 Portage Avenue University of Winnipeg Winnipeg, MB R3B 2E9 bigwidestrum@hotmail.com

  • A few of these cuts will show up at a jam or on a stage soon!
    author: Joe Falletta (Bluegrass Now)

    Joe Ross is a man of many voices and talents. Known to many of us for his insightful reviews in Bluegrass Now, here he shows off a delightfully different side of himself as musician, arranger, and composer. There’s a good mix of sounds and styles here: the very appealing and energetic title cut and the sizzling “Many A Blue Moon” are two fine straight-ahead driving bluegrass cuts to watch out for. Joe dabbles in Calypso with the charming “Good Deeds.” “HotQua Nights” is a very melodious and haunting instrumental that conjures up images of a Gypsy dance with its creative lead work on hammered dulcimer and fiddle. “Pitch Black By The Ton” hearkens back to Woody Guthrie with its sad tale of the final hours of the men trapped in the Sago Mine Disaster. “Through Heaven’s Gate” winds up the album on a real upbeat note, musically and spiritually, with praise and thanks to the Lord Jesus Christ for eternal life. Joe performs lead and harmony vocals and on guitar, mandolin, bass, and hammered dulcimer. He composes on variety of topics, drawing inspiration from the news, movies, and the Bible, as well as personal emotions and experience. Joining him is a fine line up of bluegrass household names the likes of Ronnie Stewart, James King, and Scott Vestal, along with Bryan Bowers on autoharp, Radim Zenkl on pennywhistle, and Mitsuki Dazai on koto. Tying things together very nicely is a nice liner booklet in which he writes about each cut, as well as a website to hook up with the lyrics. Barry Willis, author of “America’s Music: Bluegrass” calls Festival Time Again a “delightful, enjoyable project worthy of any tunesmith or band.” I couldn’t say it better myself. There’s a lot to like about Joe and his very able band of friends. I wouldn’t be surprised to find a few of these cuts showing up at a jam or on a stage soon! (JF)

  • impressive album of very good bluegrass music
    author: Brenda Barbee – Roots Music Report Staff Reviewer

    When you listen to the newest CD by Joe Ross “Festival Time Again”, you will actually feel like you are at the bluegrass festival. The CD is an impressive compilation of some very good bluegrass music. The twelve original tracks are what bluegrass and folk music is all about. Ross also has the support of some other first class musicians (15 to be exact) which makes a great piece of work even better. The real beauty is that if you like bluegrass music, you will love this CD and if you like folk music, you will also love this CD. So if you like variety in both, you are in for a treat. The styles you will find in the CD cover the spectrum and as you tune in to the lyrics, you will discover that Ross has a real gift for folksy story-telling. He and his company of extraordinary musicians masterfully accompany the lyrics and they even throw in a couple of awesome instrumentals, for your enjoyment. Brenda Barbee – Roots Music Report Staff Reviewer

  • Will have your toes tapping even before you open the CD
    author: Marie Asner

    Joe Ross has an album with 30 years of original music on it. This bluegrass music will have your toes tapping even before you open the CD. Ross has a rich background in music and plays multiple instruments. Musicians who joined him in this collaboration are many and the blend and lyrics are fine. It is an exemplary example of musicianship. What I appreciate is the fact that I can understand the lyrics. Backgrounds are just the right blend so that the listener can appreciate everything. For example, “Pitch Black by the Ton” is a song about coal miners and what is important is that you know where they live and work, “…living in darkness who needs the sun…” tells it all about making a living. “Good Deeds” is an learning lesson for children about showing kindness that comes from the heart. “Many A Blue Moon” says “…my poor heart just can’t say good-bye” while “Philosophy” is a parody on different world philosophies, punctuated by a penny whistle. Not only are there good lyrics, but the instrumentalists have a chance to shine, also. An example is “HotQua Nights” with banjo and fiddle raising the roof. Joe Ross, I hope we don’t have to wait another 30 years for an album of original music. Time’s a’wastin’.

  • good, new bluegrass
    author: Mark Petteys

    I was quite impressed by both the quality of musicianship and diversity of the original compositions on “Festival Time Again.” The first two tracks, “Festival Time Again” and “Blood Red Roses” both capture that outdoor bluegrass festival sound that is to me the essence of bluegrass music. Then “Good Deeds” breaks into that really cool Calypso-like bluegrass. Very cool…way cool. “Hotqua Nights” then diverges further into a very hot D’jangoesque original. I especially like the use of the hammered dulcimer which gives the tune an especially haunting undertow. Then the following tracks, “Pitch Black by the Ton” and “My home in old Virginia” bring it all back to the roots bluegrass sound that begins the album. Again, this is some really well-executed bluegrass. “Desert Grave”, continues as another example of Joe Ross’ great lyricism. His strong voice and articulation bring the story out with clarity and feeling. “Goldfield” powers on in the bluegrass vein as a fine instrumental. Then there is “Old Dan and Little Ann”, yet another example of his story-telling proclivity and is followed by more driving bluegrass in “Many Blue Moon.” “Philosophy” has folk/country vibe with some interesting and erudite lyrics. The album winds up with more hard-driving bluegrass in “Through Heaven’s Gate,” with which is effort began. All in all, “Festival Time Again” is packed with powerful lyrics. The strong musicianship and singing result in an enjoyable album that kept my foot tapping through all 12 tracks.

  • splendid album – impressive package, fine vocals, excellent musicianship and rec
    author: Bill Clifton

    First of all, let me say how impressive the ‘package’ is ... with truly superb notes by Bill Jolliff that give us a real insight into the development of bluegrass/old-time music in the northwest. Not mentioned was the influence of North Carolinan apple folks who brought their musical culture to that part of the world. A friend of mine was sent to Washington State to learn about apple culture – and after 3 years, he came home picking 5-string banjo (and with very little understanding of apple culture)... Some nice kudos from Barry Willis and Pete Goble certainly enhance the package ... as do the disc photos ... a ‘blue’ moon, and I’m not sure what the other photo is, as well as the photo(s) that give us such strong reinforcement to Joe’s inspiration for “Desert Grave” – my very favorite song in the album ... some lovely poetry from Joe’s prolific pen set to a very beautiful tune! “My Home in Old Virginia” runs a close second with it’s memorable refrain “Every time I see a rainbow I wish that I could go to my home in old Virginia and my friends of long ago.” “Good Deeds”... complete w/ calypso rhythm is bound to be a winner with all ages, but most especially with the elementary-school crowd that Joe particularly wants to reach. Joe’s “Pitch Black by the Ton” about the Sago mine disaster is both timely and well-written in the first person. When Paul Clayton, Lonny Pembroke and I wrote “Springhill Mine Disaster” almost 50 years ago we originally wrote it ‘from the outside looking in.’ Then we received Maurice Ruddick’s telegram with his words all written in the first-person, and we did a quick re-write. Overall, it’s a splendid album – fine vocals and excellent musicianship and recording quality (I was particularly impressed with how well Jason Heald’s bass solos stand out... and with Al Brinkerhoff’s dobro). In the song “Philosophy,” Radim Zenkl’s pennywhistle is a really nice touch.

  • Joe has a hit with festivale time
    author: junior billings

    Hey i think Joe has a hit with festivale time. i am talking about the whole cd. i really like it, i cant say enough about it except keep up the good work, Jr Billings( J&J Bluegrass Classics WHKX 106.3 & WHQX 107.7 900 Bluefield Ave, Bluefield,WV 24701 304-325-2250

  • Some of Joe's songs will be bluegrass favorites for years to come
    author: Lorraine Jordan

    JOE ROSS has written some great songs here. I am sure some will go on to be bluegrass favorites for years to come. How often is it that you see a project where the lead singer and lead instrumentalist has also written all the songs? After hearing these selections I feel that I personally know the writer. He has included so many of his life experiences in the lyrics of 12 outstanding songs. My very favorite is "Festival Time Again." I believe that this could be a tune that could be used on many radio stations to begin the festival season. Another favorite of mine is "Many A Blue Moon." This song captures the feel of what I believe bluegrass is meant to sound like. Joe has a list of musicians on this project that anyone would be proud to be associated with. I was especially impressed to see the names of James King, Ben Greene and Ron Stewart on the featured list. Other great musicians like Bryan Bowers, Al Brinkerhoff, Tim Crouch, Mitsuki Dazai, Adam Haynes, Randy Kohrs, Jerry McNeely, Kevin Prater, Jesse Scriven, Scott Vestal and Radim Zenkl.Wow! What a line up. I know that after you listen to this project you will want to meet the man behind the words. I do. Lorraine Jordan, Carolina Road and The Daughters of Bluegrass carolinaroad@bellsouth.net

  • Joe has done an outstanding job of writing
    author: J D Cannon,

    Festival Time Again is a great way to kick off a project that covers about every style of bluegrass anyone could want to hear. It gets us ready for the bluegrass season in a big way. Some of my favorite songs on this project include "Festival Time Again" "My Home In Old Virginia" "Desert Grave" "Old Dan And Little Ann" and "Goldfield" is absolutely a great instrumental. Joe has surrounded himself with great musicians. Not only a very good songwriter, singer and musician,but also a great guy. Joe does an outstanding job of writing song reviews also. A very talented individual who I am proud to say is a friend of mine J D Cannon, President, Magnolia State BG Assn

  • Play the songs over and over to catch the fine nuances of words and music
    author: Brenda Hough

    Joe Ross is a prolific music journalist based in Oregon with over 1,200 credited articles and reviews. He is also an accomplished multi-instrumentalist and songwriter and is also an “edutainer” with his “Roots of Bluegrass” and “Folk tales of Old Japan” presented with mandolin, guitar, banjo, concertina and hammered dulcimer. He also performs with The Celtic Tradition and in the Joe Ross Band with Beth McNamara, Jerry Ashford and Al Brinkerhoff. With such a wide-ranging musical background, it’s not surprising that this album of original tunes has its roots in many styles. Some songs are strongly bluegrass, others have the Americana singer-songwriter flavor and the instrumentals have a life of their own. “Festival Time Again” may be Joe’s signature piece as he sings of the many delights to be found at a bluegrass festival. He’s joined by Randy Kohrs on dobro, Adam Haynes on fiddle, Ben Greene on banjo and Jerry McNeely on bass. Other stellar instrumentalists on the album include Bryan Bowers, Al Brinkerhoff, Tim Crouch, Ron Stewart, Radim Zenkl and Scott Vestal. Joe’s a strong storyteller and he takes care to include glimpses into the lives of everyday heroes. “Pitch Black By The Ton” is a tribute to the Sago miners who died while working far underground, and “Desert Grave” honors the life and death of a sojourner where “the winds provide a eulogy and I provide a prayer.” Joe is joined by bluegrass great James King in a tribute to their common birthplace, “My Home in Old Virginia.” “Old Dan and Little Ann” is a retelling of the classic book, Where The Red Fern Grows, bluegrass style. “Philosophy” is a meandering look at life’s possibilities accompanied by koto, penny whistle, autoharp and “keys.” “HotQua Nights” is a Hot Club romp with the gypsy jazz rhythms spearheaded by Joe on hammered dulcimer. Joe Ross is a modern day troubadour with a bag of songs to delight and fascinate and listeners will be playing the songs over and over to catch the fine nuances of words and music.

  • Outstanding Bluegrass
    author: Bill Gamble - Americanamusicplace.com

    From Roseburg, Orgeon, Joe Ross is best known as a music journalist concentrating on Bluegrass. His songwriting and musical talents have also won numerous awards and his solo show, "Roots of Bluegrass" traces the evolution of the music and demonstrates multiple instruments. He also performs with Celtic Tradition, HotQua String Band and the Joe Ross Band. On this, his latest CD, we suggest you listen to our sampling of "Festival Time Again", "Pitch Black By the Ton" and "Philosophy" to hear his outstanding style of Bluegrass.

  • The album may confab about the routine things in life but does it in an inimitab
    author: Sari N. Kent

    A cross between a bluegrass and a folk album, “Festival Time Again” by Joe Ross has facets of both genres but leans more toward bluegrass. The title track is a brisk little number about meeting anew with old acquaintances with such lyrics as, “It’s festival time again, our spirits now revived. Friends have come from here or there, some have just arrived.” The second track, “Blood Red Roses,” has a warlike connotation with the lyrics, “They say I’m a hero who helped keep them free, their country’s been spared from tyranny.” “Good Deeds,” is a song about the commendable things one can do for another person out of the kindness of their heart, for example, the line, “Rake leaves in a neighbor’s yard, good deeds are not that hard. Bake cookies for a friend that’s sick… help a classmate with their homework, be sweet and nice, don’t be a jerk.” A pleasant break comes with “HotQua Nights,” which is an instrumental song. It’s a lovely change from the other songs on the album and one listeners can boogie to. To sum up, “Festival Time Again” by Joe Ross may confab about the routine things in life but does it in an inimitable way. (Sari N. Kent for TheCelebrityCafe.com)

  • This album touches many of the corners of the bluegrass continent
    author: Bob Cherry (Cybergrass)

    Festival Time Again is the latest album by Joe Ross. Ross in one of those acoustic musicians west of the Mississippi and north of the Mason Dixon Line that knows what bluegrass is. By west and north, I mean way west and far north. In the land of the Cascades in the southwest part of Oregon in America's northwest. Being a part of a different region lends itself to different styles of acoustic and bluegrass music. This album touches many of the corners of the bluegrass continent. From hard-core traditional styles in "My Home in Old Virginia" and the lost-love tale of "Many a Blue Moon" to a Calypso beat in "Good Deeds," you will experience a world of music on Festival Time Again. If you're one who also enjoys a bit of rag-time Dixie with a 1890's western swing style, then "Goldfield" will also touch you with the masterful fiddle and mandolin blending their own story. What makes this a unique album is that Ross is not only a wonderful guitar picker but an exciting songwriter as well. This album features a dozen songs written and co-written by Ross. The lyrics are profound and sing of life's pathways. "Pitch Black by the Ton" speaks of mining two miles down. "Desert Grave" weaves a story about an early unknown pioneer and the mystery of his tale in passing the grave on one of the west's Boot Hills. The stories on this collection speak of life in the past, present and possibly the future. The guest musicians on this album all lend a bit of their own flair to the overall sound. Artists backing multi-instrumentalist Ross (guitar, keys, hammered dulcimer, mandolin) include James King (guitar), Kevin Prater (guitar, mandolin), Tim Crouch (fiddle), Adam Haynes (fiddle), Ron Stewart (banjo, fiddle), Scott Vestal (banjo), Ben Greene (banjo), Byran Bowers (autoharp), Al Brinkerhoff (resophonic guitar), Jason Heald (bass), Jerry McNeely (bass), Mitsuki Dazai (koto) and Radim Zenkl (pennywhistle). This album is as rich in variety as the artists noted, resulting in an album that is a pleasure to listen to. The music is up-beat, fresh and unique. This well rounded album is emotional, entertaining and just plain fun. It's tales of life are full of life with lively instrumentation. Take a trip out to the northwest and experience a new world of acoustic and bluegrass music with Festival Time Again.

  • Joe puts his entire self into his music
    author: Hilary West

    Having just finished listening to Festival Time Again there is no doubt in my mind how entwined Joe Ross' life is with his writing and how passionate he is about his music; he's put his entire self in it. Drawing material from his travels, history and the headlines, Joe's songs vary in tempo and structure yet revolve around a similar theme. Joe expresses this theme and that of the recording in his notes for "Philosophy" asking: "Want a philosophy that's right for you?" then answering: "These feel-good-isms help us cope and might even get you smiling." Just listening to the CD you can easily imagine Joe's smiling while he's playing and singing - especially in the track "Good Deeds", a song with a very clear message straight from Joe to his family, friends and fans. There are two instrumentals included on the twelve tracks. "Hotqua Nights" is a very cool number which gives Joe a chance to air out his hammered dulcimer skills. There's also "Goldfield", a tune with a sparkly banjo intro courtesy of Ben Greene and some wonderful mandolin accents by Kevin Prater. The recording boasts an impressive number of session players including Radim Zenkl on penny whistle, celebrated musicians Scott Vestal and Ronnie Stewart on banjo - Ronnie also does some fiddling - while Randy Kohrs lends his voice to harmonies. It would likely be hard to find a musician more enthusiastic than Joe Ross, Festival Time Again is the proof. (Hilary West, staff writer for Bluegrass Now magazine)

  • An enjoyable acoustic tapestry that should please the tastes of many
    author: R. W. Stewart

    Joe Ross and fifteen top notch musicians! ... Joe has woven an enjoyable acoustic tapestry that should please the tastes of many. He wrote eleven of the twelve songs featured here and co-wrote the driving instrumental, "Goldfield" with banjo man Bill Blackburn. He has surrounded himself with an A-list of musicians from Oregon and other areas of the country. The title track, "Festival Time Again" is a kick up your heels tribute to the good times and camaraderie found amongst those who look forward to the summer months, music festivals and reuniting with old friends. "Blood Red Roses" honors our soldiers and reminds all of their sacrifice. Every time I listen to it I find myself singing "New Freedom Bell" and "The Fields Have Turned Brown" in the back of my mind. "Good Deeds" is a charming children's song that would fit quite well with those little ones on Sesame Street. "Hotqua Nights" according to Joe is a "Gypsyjazz" instrumental. An apt description to say the least. The subtle interplay between Joe's hammered dulcimer and Jessie Scrivens' flatpicked guitar is captivating. "Pitch Black by the Ton" is a haunting tribute to the thirteen West Virginia miners trapped by the 2006 Sago Mine explosion. "My Home in Old Virginia" Joe hands the lead vocal over to a Bluegrass stalwart, Mr. James King. Joe and Randy Kohrs get to sing harmony with one of music's fine lead singers. "Desert Grave" was inspired by an abandoned grave near two Nevada ghost towns. You can almost hear the emptiness of the desert sands. "Goldfield" features the instrumental prowess of seven of the 16 musicians on this CD. The other nine are heard thru out. "Old Dan and Little Ann" is a delightful tale of a boy, his dogs, the adventures they shared, how he dealt with their passing and what he learned from it. "Many a Blue Moon" One of those love gone wrong songs. You know the type, bemoaning a lost love and yet so peppy and up beat musically that it's sure to be sung around many a festival campfire. "Philosophy" A tongue in cheek look at all solutions for whatever in the world. Featuring Mitsuki Dazai on Koto, Radim Zenkl on Pennywhistle and Brian Bowers on Autoharp. "Through Heaven's Gate" A fitting conclusion to an all around very enjoyable set of songs and tunes. Thanks Joe Ross for sharing your musical talents and fellow musicians with us! A CD worthy of all that want to listen to very well played and sung acoustic music. (R. W. Stewart Email Richard854 at webtv dot net)

  • Very nice total project
    author: Myrna Riquier, WHUS-FM

    WHUS' DJ, Amy Orlomoski, played Festival Time Again on the Bluegrass Cafe show on Sunday. Very good song, and a nice total project. Myrna Riquier, WHUS-FM Bluegrass & Country Music Dir. 1501 Storrs Road, Storrs, CT 06269 streaming audio: www.whus.org

  • Great picking, enjoyable bluegrass
    author: aburtch

    Excellent picking on this album, the musicians are great. The songs are upbeat and light-hearted with familiar themes of days gone by, loves won and lost, and the requisite murder ballad. The music overshadows the singing a bit, but overall, good enjoyable bluegrass.

  • Joe did a great job!
    author: Larry Robinson

    Joe did a great job! I aired "Blood Red Roses" last night. As an old Army vet it yanked on my heart strings. Larry Robinson "Strictly Bluegrass" "When Country Wasn't Cool" WDCB. 90.9 FM, Chicago Columnist for Bluegrass Now Magazine

  • Great songs and each one is different
    author: Pete Goble

    Great songs and each one is different. Joe Ross tells a good story and he knows how I like story songs. I like Joe's voice the best. He has the best musicians with him, and most all are my buddies. I don't know Bryan Bowers and a couple more. Joe is multi-talented, and I'm thrilled to write this review. He has a lot of talent. I really like Desert Grave, Blood Red Roses, Home in Old Virginia. I like them all, especially because they are so different. Each song has its own tune and beat. Most bluegrass albums sound the same from beginning to the end, where the music is over cooked to where you can't hear the lyrics because the pickers are too busy behind the singer. I can hear Joe's lyrics good and plain. Hotqua Nights is a real good Instrumental... Joe Ross is young and has a great future ahead. I wish him more good luck than he can stand. I sure hope he keeps doing just what he is doing.

email

Please log in to email this artist.