Barnstar! is a bluegrass/folk supergroup of sorts, with seasoned genre players Mark Erello (guitar), Taylor Armerding (mandolin) and his son Jake Armerding (fiddle), Charlie Rose (banjo) and Zack Hickman (bass), and their self-released debut C’Mon is a Northeastern gem. Although the scene regulars don’t have the chance to play together more than a few times a year, the result is an enjoyable 12 tracks of original and covers, with each member sharing vocal duties. In addition to their talents with their respective instruments, their four and five part harmonies lend the tracks depth, energy, and beauty. Standouts include “Charlottesville”, “Northern Rail”, Tommy James and the Shondells’ “I Think We’re Alone Now”, and Neil Young’s “Cowgirl in the Sand.” – Written by SMarx
SIMILAR | Danny Barnes, Big Oil, Freightline, Greenland is Melting, Chris Thile, Trampled By Turtles