Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard Time - Took Down and Put Up
Born and raised in the heart of bluegrass country, Kentuckian Larry Cordle has long been known for his songwriting talents. Perhaps best known as the co-writer of the 2000 CMA Song of the Year “Murder on Music Row,” his songs have also been recorded by such artists as Ricky Skaggs, George Strait, Allison Krauss, Rhonda Vincent, and Travis Tritt. Cordle writes nine of the thirteen songs appearing on the new CD.
One of the highlights of this CD is a song not written by Cordle. “The First Train Robbery” is written by friend Chris Stuart. Beautifully done by Cordle, and accompanied with masterful harmonies by Randy Kohrs, the song is about a gang that is hung for committing the first train robbery. The lyrics are accentuated with the great fiddle playing of Jenee Fleenor and mandolin by Wayne Benson. This is a true bluegrass classic that stands out.
Cordle has written some great songs here as well. “Hole In The Ground” captures you right away with the lonely fiddle and banjo. When Cordle begins his haunting vocals, you can hear the ache of what is to come. His voice was made for songs like these, with the ability to paint a scene and capture the listeners’ attention, while listening to the flowing instrumentals. “Rough Around the Edges” was once recorded by Travis Tritt and he makes a guest appearance here performing a great duet in this boot kicker. Cordle adds in the CD liner notes, “Every bluegrass CD has to have a good cheatin’ song.” With this in mind, Cordle includes a good one titled “Old Cheater’s Blues.”
Also included is a touching tribute song written by Cordle for friend Keith Whitley. Whitely died much too early in life, and was blessed with a magical voice. “Song for Keith” is a heartfelt song that tells of Keith�s ability to touch others.
This CD is a great mixture of bluegrass and country, stripped down to the basics. Cordle and the Lonesome Standard Time band are masters at creating good songs, enhancing them with passionate vocals and outstanding instrumentals. Take some time to listen to this one.
John resides in the heartland of the US, in the great state of Indiana. An IU alum, John enjoys a variety of music genres, but prefers artists who write their own music and deliver it with passion. When not writing about his music addiction, John can be seen out spreading his love of music by singing in a band with his wife Stephanie.