Review
Let me tell y’all about "Reckless," the 2010 gem from The Steeldrivers that perfectly ties together the rough honesty of outlaw country with the soulful depths of Southern soul, all dipped in traditional bluegrass. With Luke Wooten at the helm of production, this album’s sound is as clear as a mountain stream, letting each instrument shine bright like the early morning sun across a dew-kissed meadow.
Jumpin’ right into it, "The Reckless Side Of Me" gets your heart pumpin’ with those electrifying bluegrass vibes, while gems like "Good Corn Liquor" and "Where Rainbows Never Die" showcase melodic hooks that linger long after the songs have ended. Slower, heartfelt ballads like "The Price" and "You Put The Hurt On Me" cut deep, displaying the band’s knack for weaving tales that tug at the heartstrings.
Chris Stapleton’s vocal presence is a powerful force here—his guitar work ain't too shabby either—contributing to the album's soul-stirring quality. Meanwhile, Richard Bailey’s banjo and Tammy Rogers’ fiddle add layers of richness that set this band apart from the rest. Wooten’s clean and balanced production ensures that every pick, pluck, and strum is front and center, doing justice to the band's stellar musicianship.
Running just under 47 minutes, the album strikes a lovely balance, with songs flowing into each other as naturally as the changing seasons. Critics have raved about "Reckless," and it's plain to see why—the band’s unique blend of styles and their knack for crafting memorable tunes make this album a must-hear for anyone yearning for fresh, high-quality bluegrass with a twist. - Rex