The SteelDrivers as a band may be new to the scene, but for the most part they are seasoned musicians and staples of the music scene and industry. When the debut self titled album landed in stores this year, it was obvious of that fact. The band features the sandpaper –to- silk delivery of Paintsville, KY native Chris Stapleton on lead vocals and guitar. He is also known as a rising superstar in Nashville for songs he has penned for artists such as Tim McGraw, Brad Paisley, and fellow eastern Kentuckian Patty Loveless. Veterans Mike Henderson on mandolin, Tammy Rogers on fiddle and background vocals, Richard Bailey on Banjo, and Mike Fleming, holding it down on bass, round out the group.

“Blue Side of the Mountain” opens the cd with only Stapleton’s guitar and growling vocals before the band kicks in with their vice-tight sound. You just know the subject of the song is somewhere in a holler in the hills.

Mike Henderson noted that when he and Stapleton would get together and write they would turn out a bluegrass or an acoustic piece and then demo it with a B-3 and drums. “Midnight Train to Memphis” is one that comes to mind that would fit that platform. It oozes blues with a twinge of soul. “If it Hadn’t Been for Love” reveals the dark side of love, after losing it. “East Kentucky Home” lends itself to the reoccurring theme of homesickness and heartache in the Appalachians.

Overall this debut album from the SteelDrivers is fantastic. The playing is intense and the writing superb. The production has that bluegrass sound but it’s not your grandfather’s. There isn’t any “high and lonesome” on this project. Mike Henderson’s mandolin chops keep it chooglin’ along. Tammy Rogers’ fiddle cuts through sharply and her breaks are melodic and surprising. She nails the high harmonies on “Drinkin Dark Whiskey” and “ Midnight Tears,” bringing goose bumps to the surface of the skin. As The Wall Street Journal states, “…this music is organic and unsoiled by studio trickery.” I say go buy it!!!