A Harmonious Evolution: Deanie Richardson and Kimber Ludiker Redefine Twin Fiddles with “Cacklin’ Hen”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
For those deeply immersed in the world of bluegrass, there’s a particular magic that unfolds when two fiddles intertwine. The tradition of twin fiddles, a hallmark of the genre since its mid-1950s popularization by pioneers like Bill Monroe and Mac Wiseman, offers a distinctive sonic richness. Now, two of bluegrass music’s most respected and celebrated fiddle players, Deanie Richardson and Kimber Ludiker, are not just continuing this esteemed lineage but are actively pushing its boundaries with a unique and compelling approach.
Richardson, a founding member of the GRAMMY-nominated all-female ensemble Sister Sadie, and Ludiker, a driving force behind the equally acclaimed Della Mae, have joined their formidable talents to embark on a new series of twin fiddle recordings. Their inaugural offering for Mountain Home Music Company, “Cacklin’ Hen,” is a dazzling display of virtuosity that immediately asserts their unique vision.
Kimber Ludiker speaks with palpable enthusiasm about this collaboration: “Deanie Richardson has long been one of my favorite fiddlers, and has always been my favorite to play with. We’ve been dreaming about a twin fiddle record for years, and Mountain Home is the perfect label to share our excitement and vision.” This shared passion and a long-standing desire to create together clearly fuel the project, lending an authentic synergy to their music.
Beyond the sheer joy of playing together, Ludiker highlights a deeper purpose behind their endeavor. “With our bands, Della Mae and Sister Sadie, we’ve both had a long commitment to showcase and create a platform for women in this music, and we’re excited to add our fiddling to the canon of tunes in our music. I especially hope young girls will be excited to have more and more recordings of instrumentals played by women to inspire their learning.” This dedication to empowering and inspiring the next generation of female instrumentalists is a powerful and commendable aspect of their work, adding a significant layer of meaning to their artistic output.
“Cacklin’ Hen,” as the first fruit of this highly anticipated collaboration, proves to be a strong out-of-the-gate entry. The track is not merely a showcase for two talented fiddlers, but a masterclass in musical collaboration, supported by a crackerjack band. Bassist Hasee Ciaccio (Laurie Lewis & The Right Hands) provides a solid foundation, while award-winning banjo player Kristin Scott Benson’s intricate picking adds vibrant texture. Missy Raines & Allegheny mandolinist Tristan Scroggins delivers melodic brilliance, and reigning IBMA Guitar Player of the Year Cody Kilby (Travelin’ McCourys) provides his customary tasteful accompaniment.
What truly sets “Cacklin’ Hen” apart and makes it particularly noteworthy is Ludiker and Richardson’s innovative approach to twin fiddling. While they adhere to the traditional fiery tempo expected of such a tune, they diverge from the typical structure of playing the opening and closing together before taking separate solos. Instead, this duo plays in harmony throughout the entire piece. Ludiker’s uncanny ability to deftly match Richardson’s improvised leads creates a unique and compelling musical experience. It’s a continuous, almost telepathic conversation between their instruments, where each note from one fiddle seems to anticipate and complement the other, weaving an intricate tapestry of sound. This constant interplay of harmonies, rather than sequential solos, elevates the track, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved bluegrass tradition.
In “Cacklin’ Hen,” Deanie Richardson and Kimber Ludiker have not just released a single; they’ve unveiled an exciting new chapter in twin fiddle music. Their virtuosity, combined with a thoughtful and innovative approach to arrangement, promises a captivating series of recordings. For bluegrass enthusiasts and aspiring musicians alike, this collaboration is a must-listen, offering both technical brilliance and a profound commitment to the future of the genre.