Don
RigsbyHillbilly Heartache
Rebel Records
BY BOB MITCHELL
Don
Rigsby
Hillbilly Heartache
Rebel Records
BY BOB MITCHELL
With this release, Don Rigsby, an Eastern Kentucky boy raised
on the sounds of traditional bluegrass and old-time music, displays his respect
for the music he loves to play. Rigsby fronts his own band, Midnight Call, and
this CD marks the first time he has recorded as bandleader and he does it right.
Some of my favorite tracks include a rollicking instrumental, the heroic tale of
Big Jim, a sensitive cover in Bill Monroe’s Kentucky Waltz and
Old Green Chevrolet, the poignant story of an old-time traveling minister
passing the torch to a younger generation. Other highlights - an energetic
Redbird and two gospel tracks - the exuberant He Loves To Hear You Shout
and the insightful, slightly humorous Make God Laugh. Hillbilly Heartache
is a powerhouse solo debut. On a five-point scale of traditional bluegrass
excellence, this release merits a five. BMP