“In the comfortable shade of a large canopy tent,
a string band called The Reedy Buzzards held a workshop for anyone
who wished they could sing gospel harmony-style music. They made
it easy, as participants learned their parts by following dots
on a sheet of paper. And it worked. It didn't take long for the
learners to sound accomplished in their harmonizing to the gospel
song "Let's
Go Down to the River and Pray," made popular recently
as part of the soundtrack from the movie "O, Brother,
Where Art Thou." | Lacrosse Tribune
“All I can say is: this is outstanding music! I can't believe
I'm just now coming across your work. I'm planning on featuring
your music next week on Bluegrass Express. "For You I Am
Praying," "Must I Go and Empty Handed," and "Where
the Roses Never Fade" simply lead the parade for 9 other
great cuts.” | Marvin O'Dell | KCSN [88.5]
| Northridge, California
“It is so wonderful! It exceeds my already high expectations.
I played it through 3 times at home right away.” |
Susan Madden | KBCS [91.7] | Bellevue, Washington
“I have listened to it about 3-4 times and really
love it!! The choice of music is really wonderful, and the vocal
harmonies are great.” | Sandy Quam, Bluegrass
Express | KSER | Everett, Washington
“The CD came today and I love it! Actually, I am blown away
by some of the arrangements.”
| Suzie & Bing Solomon,
Gospel Grass | KLT [670 AM] | Denver, Colorado
“I love your Chapter and Verse, am playing it often
on my show and am adding it to my list of Best of 2003. Thanks.” |
John Weingart | WPRB-103.3 FMPrinceton, New Jersey
"...As
in their singing, the Reedy Buzzards pay more attention to
tone and playing just the right note rather than to pyrotechnics
although their version of Monroe's 'Come Hither To Go Yonder'
shows that they can pick with the best when they want to." |
Bluegrass Unlimited
"This is a great little
CD. The straightforward, unembellished songs are reminiscent
of the early days of country music... You might think you have
stepped back in time to a bygone era, when the pace of life
was a little gentler and music was an important part of life." |
Dirty Linen
“It is hard to imagine a better-performed collection of vintage
string band and bluegrass gospel songs… Choosing songs that are
gently obscure, the Reedy Buzzards share the joyful spirit of
their music in a manner that is fresh and inspired.
“Ruth Werner has a voice that resonates with heart and sincerity,
bolder than that of favoured bluegrass vocalists such as Alison
Krauss. Her lead vocal on “I Need Thee Every Hour” is passionately
presented.
“Tom Schwark is as impressive a mandolin player as I've heard;
the mandolin duet (with Dean Werner) “Beautiful Valley of Eden” is
moving. Devoid of jingoism, a timely rendition of Weapon of Prayer
is included.
“I've said it before. The Reedy Buzzards are the best independent
bluegrass band I've heard — with tight harmonies and superb instrumentation — classy,
forthright, and true to the spirit of Monroe's music.” |
Review of “Chapter & Verse” | Red Deer Advocate
| Alberta, Canada
|
