One Step Ahead
Since returning to the bluegrass fold, Rhonda Vincent has earned accolades in country and bluegrass circles alike with two breakout releases, 2000'sBack Home Againand 2001'sThe Storm Still Rages.One Step Aheadis a formidable addition to the series. Vincent (joined by an all-star cast of pickers) not only serves up consistently superb vocals and sprightly mandolin picking, but also displays a masterful songwriting touch. Whether on kinetic bluegrass romps like "Kentucky Borderline" and "Ridin' the Red Line," a soulful country love ballad like "You Can't Take It With You When You Go," or an a cappella gospel rave-up ("Fishers of Men"), Vincent hits the artistic and emotional bull's-eye again and again.--Bob Allen