Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver - A School of Bluegrass
Review by Joe Ross, Roseburg, Oregon - email rossjoe@hotmail.com

Fifty songs on Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver’s two CD set, “A School of Bluegrass” is a must-have for every serious bluegrass fan. Interestingly, all cuts were pulled from home rehearsal and live performance tapes that Doyle Lawson had collected over the years. So don’t expect perfect studio quality sound, but instead focus on the tightness, depth, passion and vitality that his bands represented. The Kingsport, TN. native originally formed Quicksilver in 1979, and this release is an historical compilation of 25 years of exceptional bluegrass and gospel music. It just so happens that Doyle also turned the big 6-0 in 2004. Known as one of the best mandolin players and band leaders in bluegrass, he actually started his professional career as a banjo player (replacing J.D. Crowe in Jimmy Martin’s band in 1963).

Over the years since Quicksilver formed, there have been thirteen configurations of Lawson’s band, and each and every one has always maintained the very high caliber of music that they have become known for. Some of Lawson’s “school of bluegrass” members have included Shawn Lane, Lou Reid, Terry Baucom, Brad Campbell, Shelton Feazell, Mike Hartgrove, Jim Mills, Dale Perry, Scott Vestal, Ray Deaton, Randy Graham, Jimmy Haley,
Barry Scott, John Berry, Jr, Curtis Vestal, Steve Gulley, Barry Abernathy, Doug Bartlett, Jimmy VanCleve, Russell Moore, and Hunter Berry.

They received a gold record representing a million dollars in sales for“Rock My Soul,” their first all-gospel album. In 1998, they were the first bluegrass band invited to perform at the National Gospel Quartet Convention in Louisville, Kentucky. Some of their other awards have included the 2000 IBMA Gospel Recorded Performance of the Year (“Winding Through Life”) and the 2001 and 2002 IBMA Vocal Group of the Year Awards.

These are some of their more recent accomplishments, but one mustn’t lose sight of their early achievements too. One must only listen to a few minutes of Terry Baucom, Jimmy Haley and Doyle Lawson sharing breaks on “Train ‘45” to understand the power, fervor and intensity with which they approached their craft. This bluegrass with vigor is a mighty fine treat that will allow us all to participate in the silver anniversary of this group. Lawson
wanted to do something special for the fans, and we’re sure lucky. (Joe Ross)