Bean Blossom
Recorded in June 1973 at the seventh annual Bill Monroe Bluegrass Festival in Indiana,Bean Blossomnot only showcases Monroe's Blue Grass Boys, but also his most-famous disciples.Jim & Jesse,Jimmy Martin, andLester Flatt, a solo act since 1969, each deliver high-quality, hard-driving traditional bluegrass before they all return to the stage for the grand finale. Although each artist is worthy of greater exploration, this zesty set serves as a useful introduction to each one's particular stylistic traits: Monroe's prototypical high, lonesome wail; Jim & Jesse's seamless brother harmonies; Martin's aggressive vocals and urgent rhythms; and Flatt's mellow, conversational phrasing.--Marc Greilsamer