I’m not really good at reviewing shows that I see. However last night I took my dear ole’ Mom to see Ricky Skaggs. She is a big fan of his from way back. Anyway It was Ry Cooder, Sharon White (The Whites) and Ricky along with Sharon’s Dad, her Sister, Mark Fain on stand-up bass and Ry’s son on the drums.
What an incredible night of ole’ time country music/bluegrass and gospel. Ricky even mentioned before they got going that if you’re lookin’ for Bro-Country you came to the wrong place. The show clocked in at just a couple of minutes shy of 2 hours with no intermission. The pickin’ and harmonies were first rate. Lots of Stanley Brothers, Flatt and Scruggs and a cover of Merle’s the Fugitive thrown into the mix.
This style is not really my go to stuff, but I was blown away by all of their craft. Even if you just have a passing interest in bluegrass type music, check this out you won’t be disappointed.
sounds great. Ry Cooder is on my bucket list for sure. Did he switch instruments alot? Alway dig it when the band swaps places as well. Keeps it fun to watch.
sounds great. Ry Cooder is on my bucket list for sure. Did he switch instruments alot? Alway dig it when the band swaps places as well. Keeps it fun to watch.
Oh my god yes did he ever, must have had 7 or 8 guitars of many shapes, sizes and sounds 
not to mention a banjo
YES, it was a great show. Ry played a big body Gretch when they did a Merle Travis song and on a couple of other songs as well. He had what appeared to be a oddly shaped Kay for one song. Played 5-string banjo - bluegrass-style - mentioned that he hadn't played banjo in front of more than three people in many many years. Played a long neck 8- string electric teardrop-shaped instrument. Maybe an octave mandolin. Like those old Voxes. Acoustic on the last song. He sang Bass harmony in the 4-part vocal parts. One of his best solos he dropped the B-string to A ( during his solo) and ended up in a C6th tuning (or something like it) and did some cool Western swing/Hawaiian style. Ricky Skaggs did some amazing mandolin and I'm pretty sure it was not plugged in. Big condenser mic in front and sounded great. The band all commented on how much they liked the sound in Massey Hall. The real surprise of the evening was Buck White on piano. 85 years old. He totally smoked and they gave him tons of solo time. He was very jazzy. He really seemed to enjoy playing. After every solo he would just turn to the audience and smile and laugh as if he was having the time of his life. After the show, Ricky , Sharon and Ry sat downstairs signing stuff and having photos taken with the audience. Got my T-shirt signed by all three. Also, Ry signed my copy of The UFO has Landed.
This style is not really my go to stuff, but I was blown away by all of their craft.
Yea, I get that. Don't do country, (old school or new) but like you I appreciate real musical talent when it rolls down the pike. Thanks for the review......
I caught the same line up at the Birchmere a few months ago. I thought it was a great show. Certainly very talented musicians doing what they do best. I'd go again.
Excellent thread!! 🙂
I have never had the pleasure of hearing Ry Cooder in person. The Whites and Skaggs did a free outdoor concert at a yearly festival in my hometown about 10 years ago. Not my favorite genre, but I could appreciate their talent.
What a good son you must be.
