CD Review: New Day Dawning – The Roys
12 years ago Liv Carter 2
New Day Dawning – The Roys (Rural Rhythm Records, 2012)
It has been moving that way for a while but, in the last five years especially, bluegrass has enjoyed a strong surge in popularity. One of the acts at the vanguard of modernizing the genre is sibling duo The Roys. Elaine and Lee blend the comforting sounds of traditionalism with modern melodies to create their own uplifting type of bluegrass. That it is equally well-received by ‘grass fans as by the country music community, speaks to the appeal of, and the need for, what they have created.
Musically, new album, New Day Dawning, is the logical follow-up to previous releases, and was produced by the duo and Andy Leftwich. It is a seven-track testament to the power of love and belonging. Not in a saccharine way but in a deep, inspirational sense with stories of love of family, love of life, and a love for oneself. Every song here has something to add to the topic.
The title track, which the siblings co-wrote with hit writer Steve Dean, bubbles with optimism and hope. Its partner track and first single, ‘Still Standing,’ builds on that, and has Elaine singing about the courage to embrace the opportunities that lie on the other side of dark times. It is a three-minute self-empowerment therapy session, and her voice has never sounded so free.
Two songs deal with the warm presence and treasure trove of memories left behind by a departed loved one. ‘Daddy to Me’ is a wonderful description of how one person can touch many lives in many different ways; ‘Grandpa’s Barn’ recounts “the lifetime of memories” collected in the titular place.
The remaining three tracks deal, each in their own way, with belonging and gratitude. ‘Windin’ Roads’ tells us that no matter how far we go to find ourselves, there is one place where we will always belong, and ‘Living Scrapbook’ is a reminder to appreciate and enjoy the time with our loved ones while we can. Our tendency to rush through life while not paying enough attention to what we have right now is the topic of ‘Fast As We Roll,’ a pacey track also harboring a gorgeous lyrical melody.
The siblings’ harmonies are impeccable. Elaine and Lee take turns from track to track, and after years of performing together, know the space occupied by each other’s voice perfectly. They both manage to slot the harmony in exactly the right spot between the music and the lead vocal.
New Day Dawning is The Roys’ most accomplished offering yet. This is broad-appeal bluegrass for the 21st century, and announces a new day dawning for the genre.
New Day Dawning will be available on August 28, 2012, everywhere good music is sold.
Liv Carter
She holds several certificates from Berklee College of Music, and a certificate in Positive Psychology from UC Berkeley.
Her main influences are coffee, cats, and Alexander Hamilton.
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