Old
and in the Way review
Old and
in the Way was a short-lived bluegrass band that existed for about
nine months in 1973 with a few other rare appearances such as the
Golden State Bluegrass Festival on April 27 and 28, 1974, in San
Rafael, CA. With this band, Jerry Garcia is primarily a background singer
and banjo player assuming an important role in a group effort of an
all-star line up of musicians. Jerry Garcia’s voice is very well
suited for bluegrass as he tackles the lead vocals on “White
Dove.” His back up singing is heard throughout the disc blending
perfectly with lead vocalist Peter Rowan.
One of the
strongest songs on the CD is an outstanding instrumental written by
Vassar Clements called ”Kissimmee.” Clements does give Garcia
and Grisman each a chance to solo, but they are shown up by his
proficient playing. Also strong is the closing tune on the disc
“The Land of the Navajo.” In
addition to the typical banjo, mandolin, and fiddle jams, this song
has a soulful vocal solo by Peter Rowan.
The first
release by Old and in the Way is a classic. by Barry
Small
Grade
B
+
