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| CD Reviews for Two-Timin': |
"When it comes to traditional American folk music in the Baltimore and Washington, D.C. area, there is no doubt that the legendary bluegrass collective The Seldom Scene has long been the standard by which all other local bands and artists are judged. Now with the release of its second album in two years, D.C.'s Dead Men's Hollow is emerging as a major force on the local bluegrass and folk music scene.
"Two-Timin' is the follow-up to Forever True, the sextet's debut that garnered two Wammie Awards in 2005 from the Washington Area Music Association (WAMA) — the same organization that recognized Music Monthly's own Susie Mudd with a Special Appreciation Award for her dedication to the local music scene — and it matches its predecessor's brilliance by combining top-notch instrumentalists with stunning vocals.
"The six members of Dead Men's Hollow prove to be equally adept at both interpreting and writing songs that reflect our country's unique acoustic heritage, so much so that almost a third of the album's 17 tracks are original compositions but you would be hard pressed to pick them out from their traditional counterparts without looking at the writing credits in the liner notes. This is extremely high praise for a group like Dead Men's Hollow that takes so much inspiration from the music of the past.
"Some of the many highlights from Two-Timin' include the previously released 'Wither's Rocking Hymn,' a subdued take on the standard 'Darlin' Corey,' the cheery original 'Same Old Day' and 'Calling My Children Home,' a hauntingly beautiful a capella performance of a classic song from the legendary Country Gentlemen that includes vocal contributions from all six members of the band.
"While the band's debut Forever True grabbed the attention of music fans and critics throughout the region, Two-Timin' will cement Dead Men's Hollow reputation as a real force in acoustic Americana music — a solid and memorable collection from start to finish.
Greg Yost
Music Monthly Magazine
November 2006 issue
"Dead Men's Hollow writes songs that feel as though they have been around for decades. On Two-Timin', the Virginia based sextet's second album, they excel at writing traditional American tunes, emulating country legends like the Carter Family." Read full review >
On Tap Magazine
October 2006 Issue
"This group released one of the best self released discs of the year last year. This year they have come up with one of the best sophomore releases of the year. Using a triple threat of female harmonies and some of the best playing around behind them they have come up with another important recording. This is not a bunch of kids trying to pay homage to a genre they enjoy. The difference here is that they are the music they play and it comes through loud and clear on this new recording."
Village Records
"The Washington-based sextet, described by some as a collision between the Andrews Sisters and the Holy Modal Rounders, put together 17 memorable songs in its sophomore disc. It's a nice mix of traditional songs you'll probably recognize like "The Cuckoo," "Glory Land," "Darlin' Corey" and "Wayfaring Stranger," mixed in with traditional sounding but modern originals.
"These folks keep to the old-time tradition, adding precision singing to the mix. There's a barn dance medley of "Tombigbee Waltz" and "High Up on Tug." But nobody would be dancing to Bob Peirce's "Grandma Was a Cropduster." They'd be laughing too hard.
"The disc's title is a play on the fact that this is the band's followup to its 2005 debut, "Forever True." But sprinkled throughout—a comfortable distance from the obligatory Gospel songs—are oblique references to that grand old pastime of two-timin', "Forever Untrue," if you will. Careful listening pays off."
Jay Votel
FOLK NEWS, World Folk Music Association
"In true collaborative fashion, each band member brings things to the table that make for a convincing and cohesive musical presentation. Their instrumental work isn't flashy, but it has whimsical old-time charm." Read full review >
Joe Ross
Staffwriter, Bluegrass Now Magazine
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