Jimmy Martin – The King Of Bluegrass

These dozen and a half songs date from Jimmy Martin’s lauded decade on the Decca label (1958-1969). It’s not surprising that his legend also includes his often larger-than-life manner, which can be self-servingly direct. Writer Tom Piazza’s exemplary article on Martin for the Oxford American magazine a few years ago was expanded into a book last year, and this set is a welcome release for a sadly under-reissued legend of bluegrass.

Streamlined and propulsive, Martin makes this music sound as natural as air. However, it belies a prodigious wealth of craft and a finely honed aesthetic. Martin isn’t just the voice on the top, he’s a powerful guitarist, anchoring and directing the small ensemble with the finely braided integration of a single entity. About a third of the tunes are written or co-written by Martin, and they display a similar use of elevated naturalism. Phrases so common they’re hardly noticeable take on magical powers (“Hold Watcha Got”), and emotionally resonant sentiments are rendered with powerfully honest depth (“Steal Away Somewhere And Die”).

Produced by the Country Music Foundation, this set is warmly mastered and well-sequenced (moving forward chronologically, but also with a keen sense of momentum and structure). Even if your CD shelf is full, give one away and make room for the essential Jimmy Martin.