Banjoist
Don Reno
and guitarist/lead singer
Red Smiley
formed a formidable
bluegrass
duo from the early '50s until they amiably went their separate ways in 1964. In 1971 the duo's paths crossed once again, leading to the recording of
Together Again
, a little gem of an album. At a little over 30 minutes, the album will seem a bit short by 2006's standards (though lots of
groups still record 30- to 45-minute albums), but fans, glad to have it on vinyl in 1971, will be glad to have it out again on CD. The recording is real old-school, meaning the recording is mono and that even with modern polishing, screechy high notes remain. For people who like their
rough around the edges, however, these shortcomings complement
Reno & Smiley
's mountain style:
is shot through with authenticity. If the album has a real weakness, it's that best tracks --
"Highway 52,"
"A Dime Looks Like a Wagon Wheel,"
and
"Emotions"
-- are frontloaded. It's also interesting to note the inclusion of
"Soldier's Last Letter,"
an old pro-war song proudly played by
as the Vietnam War raged on. Today, however,
will be cherished for its bluesy
, fancy picking, and fine
country
harmonies. ~ Ronnie D. Lankford, Jr.