The Roys 'Lonesome Whistle' Rural Rhythm

A brother and sister duo who bring their strong vocal presence to a set of songs that have been written for the most part by Lee Roy and Elaine Roy either together or separately with a range of writing partners. The pitch their music between an understanding and love for the fathers of bluegrass and for it's current champions like Ricky Skaggs. In point of fact they have utilized members of the latter's Kentucky Thunder on this album. Skaggs himself along with the Whites appear on one track That's What Makes It Love. The duo also produced the album with Andy Leftwich giving it a clear, upfront contemporary sound that might upset some bluegrass traditionalists by including Steve Brewster's drums on four tracks. Other than that they may not have a lot to complain about with these strong vocal performances and the equally impressive playing from the likes of Randy Kohrs on dobro. Both siblings take lead vocals which gives the songs a sense of variety that makes it such a rounded album for bluegrass fans relying as it does more on song craft that instrumental prowess. Those songs including blue collar tributes like Coal Mining Man, the power of strong relationships with That's What Makes It Love or the warning of taking the wrong path, even with small steps on Give A Ride To The Devil. The Roys deliver there music with a sense of joy and conviction that makes you want to hear that lonesome whistle.