The Resonant Echoes of Tradition: Route 3 Captivates Live at The Station Inn
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
There are certain venues that hold an almost sacred place in the tapestry of American music, and Nashville’s Station Inn is undoubtedly one of them. For five decades, its unassuming brick walls have reverberated with the pure, unadulterated sound of bluegrass, hosting legends from Bill Monroe to Flatt & Scruggs. To step onto that stage is to connect with a powerful lineage, and for Southwest Missouri’s acclaimed bluegrass outfit Route 3, their recent live album, The Best of Route 3: Live at The Station Inn, is a testament to that profound connection and their own burgeoning legacy.
Released via Pinecastle Records, this album isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a portal to a specific, vibrant night in November 2024. Recorded during a sold-out performance that serendipitously coincided with The Station Inn’s 50th anniversary, the album captures Route 3 at their most vital: raw, energetic, and intimately connected with a packed house. It’s the kind of recording that transports you, making you feel the thrum of the bass, the zing of the banjo, and the collective breath of an appreciative audience.
The core lineup – Jason Jordan on guitar and vocals, Doug Clifton on bass and vocals, Greg Potter on mandolin and vocals, and Janice Martin on banjo and vocals – is on full display, showcasing the tight musicianship and intuitive interplay they’ve cultivated. Each member gets their moment in the spotlight, delivering performances that highlight their individual prowess while reinforcing the seamless chemistry that defines their sound. Adding another layer of authenticity to the experience is special guest Joshua Ulbrich, owner of The Station Inn, whose dobro work adds a rich, resonant texture to the proceedings. His presence isn’t just a nod to the venue; it’s a symbiotic collaboration that elevates the performance.
The tracklist for The Best of Route 3 offers a well-curated journey through the band’s repertoire, blending fan favorites from their studio albums Losing Time and Just Believe with a smattering of classic covers that pay homage to the genre’s foundations. We hear Jordan’s heartfelt originals like “Losing Time,” “Mississippi Line,” and “Splitlog Road,” showcasing his evocative songwriting. Their take on classics like Earl Scruggs and Lester Flatt’s “Down the Road” and even Paul Simon’s “Leaves That Are Green” demonstrates their respect for tradition while subtly infusing their own contemporary sensibilities. The inclusion of track intros adds a personal touch, giving listeners a glimpse into the banter and atmosphere of a live Route 3 show.
What makes Route 3 a standout in today’s bluegrass scene is this very signature blend: a deep respect for traditional roots infused with a fresh, contemporary originality. Their live performances are known for high-energy picking that keeps the momentum soaring, coupled with heartfelt vocals that convey genuine emotion. It’s this combination of technical skill and authentic expression that has earned them a loyal following and critical acclaim, including being named the 2020 ACMA “Bluegrass Artist of the Year.”
From performing at leading festivals across the Midwest to appearing on television programs and charting hits like “Cartersville” (which reached the Top 5 on the Bluegrass Today chart), Route 3 has steadily built an impressive resume. Their most recent studio album, Just Believe (2024), continues to garner praise, setting the stage perfectly for this live album.
The Best of Route 3: Live at The Station Inn is more than just a souvenir of a memorable night; it’s a vibrant capture of a band at the peak of its powers, connecting with an audience in a hallowed space. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of bluegrass, delivered with a precision and passion that will undoubtedly solidify Route 3’s place among the genre’s leading lights for years to come. For anyone who appreciates the raw, unvarnished beauty of live acoustic music, this album is an essential listen.