Since their debut in the mid-'80s, the Lonesome River Band has spent time both in the middle of the bluegrass road and along its margins, experimenting with newer, more progressive sounds while periodically returning to their traditional bluegrass roots. Talkin' to Myself finds them in the latter mode, running through a program of bluegrass standards ("Are You Afraid to Call Me Darlin'," the Stanley Brothers' classic "Dog Gone Shame") and tradition-minded originals and covers (bassist Ronnie Bowman's "Talkin' to Myself," Bill Castle's "Swing That Hammer"). This lineup may be the strongest vocal ensemble the group has had yet: Mandolinist Don Rigsby is one of the best tenors in bluegrass right now, and Bowman is just as good singing lead. Dan Tyminski's production offers just the right balance of slickness and grit. This is one of those rare bluegrass albums that is likely to appeal equally to fans of the traditional and progressive schools. ~ Rick Anderson
