Willard Gayheart has been part of the Appalachian music scene since the 70’s with his bands The Highlanders, Skeeter and the Skidmarks, and Alternate Roots. Willard Gayheart and Friends at Home in The Blue Ridge is the first official solo album by the 87-year-old East Kentucky-born singer/songwriter and pencil artist. The album was produced by Teddy Thompson and Ed Haber (Richard Thompson), working with a host of guest musicians like son-in-law Scott Freeman (mandolin, fiddle), granddaughter Dori Freeman (backing vocals) and her husband Nick Falk (drums), Jeff Hill (upright bass), Jon Graboff (pedal steel), and old friend Jimmy Zek (banjo). The result is a collection of predominantly self-written old-time Americana and bluegrass. Standout tracks include: the good-hearted reflection “The Workin’”; a cover of The Highlanders’ “Appalachian Hills”; a cover of the jazz swing tune by the Jugband Five Harmaniacs, “Coney Island Washboard”; the love ballad “Sweet Virginia Beauty”; the tribute to local guitar maker Wayne Henderson on “My Henderson Guitar”; the first song Gayheart ever wrote in 1972, “Kentucky Memories”; and the bluegrass gospel tune, “A Turn Toward the Light.” Steeped in tradition, this collection is a culminating celebration of life and times in Appalachia across multiple generations – one that should not be missed. – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | Alternate Roots, The Highlanders, Dori Freeman, Skeeter and the Skidmarks