VARIOUS ARTIST
Homeward Sound: A Bluegrass Tribute To
Simon & Garfunkel (CMH Records)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

---

I was pleasantly surprised at how easily the songs of Simon & Garfunkel leant themselves to bluegrass interpretations. Emmylou Harris' interpretation of "The Boxer" from her Roses In The Snow album pointed the way. The musicians on this CD have the talent and vision to follow her lead and seize the opportunity.

The musicians on seven of the Homeward Sound numbers are David West: guitars, banjo, mandolin, bongo, bass, and tambourine; Bill Flores: dobro and pedal steel guitar; Mike Mullins: mandolin; Al di Marc: piano and bass; and Bo Fox: box. On the remaining six songs, Glen Duncan plays fiddle; Mike Toppins plays electric and pedal steel guitar plus banjo; Jim Brown plays piano; Vic Jordon plays acoustic guitar; Kevin Grantt plays bass; and Mike Kennedy plays drums. All these musicians shine in their ensemble collaboration.

Songs such as "Mrs. Robinson," "Bridge Over Troubled Waters," "Homeward Bound," and "I Am A Rock" are pop classics. It is refreshing to listen to these new renditions in a different musical genre. Give this CD a legitimate hearing and you'll be delighted at the artists' original and imaginative approach.

© 2004 - Ron Saranich