Bluegrass Journey DVD- A Trip to Grey Fox and More

Bluegrass Journey is almost like two documentaries rolled into one. On the one hand it explores, to a certain extent, what Bluegrass is and gives a brief overview of its roots. On the other hand it explores on a deeper level what Bluegrass means to many musicians and fans alike. It does all this mostly with the Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival in New York State as the backdrop. Grey Fox has been one of the best bluegrass festivals for almost thirty years and so was the ideal place for the makers of the documentary to find the best players and, just as importantly, the most fervent fans.

Tim O'Brien is featured heavily throughout the DVD as his obvious link to the many branches of the Bluegrass tree make him an ideal narrator. Tim has always explored the many different styles that have come from Bluegrass and of course where Bluegrass itself came from. From his forays into his Irish roots to pure bluegrass and beyond Tim has a unique and important insight into the music and what makes it so alive and appeal to so many.

Of course Tim is not the only voice. Jerry Douglas, Pete Wernick, Del McCoury and Peter Rowan are among those who give their own views on the music from which they have all made good careers. The fans who visit Grey Fox tell the real story though. They gather at many of these festivals every year and have made friends and even found love along the way. They come from all walks of life but for a few days every year they have the common bond of music and laughter.

The DVD is filled with lovely performances too, kicking off with Jerry Douglas, Byron House and Chris Thile. Tim O'Brien appears with his band The Crossing bringing the Celtic feel to the proceedings and he is also joined by the amazing Darrell Scott for some tunes and songs. Tony Rice takes us through his signature Shenandoah and Danny Boy medley and Peter Rowan is in fine form with his Texas Trio.

There are performances too from the more traditional bluegrass bands and performers like Del McCoury, The Dry Branch Fire Squad and some lovely clips from the IBMA conference in Louisville from many great bands. There is even a lovely comical moment with Marty Stuart and Dolly Parton highlighting just how glitzy the Bluegrass World has become.

But from the glitz of the awards, we are brought back to reality and to Grey Fox with fans cleaning themselves off after a huge storm that left many of their tents waterlogged and very uncomfortable. Yet these festival veterans wear the inclement weather with a smile and get on with the business of enjoying the great music.

This is by no means a definitive history of Bluegrass , nor does even begin to scratch at the surface of this thriving world and its many branches. It is however a lovely slice of this great musical lifestyle and is packed with music and smiles. It certainly has me chomping at the bit to get on the long road north to New York State and Grey Fox 2004

For more info on Bluegrass Journey click HERE

For more on Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival click HERE