“Go Big and Go Home”: The David Mayfield Parade Unfurls a New Bluegrass Vision
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
The David Mayfield Parade has long been a name synonymous with high-octane bluegrass and a live performance that leaves audiences breathless. With the release of their highly anticipated new album, Go Big and Go Home, the band not only reaffirms their reputation but significantly expands the boundaries of their sound, delivering a collection of songs that are both rooted in tradition and boldly innovative. This isn’t just another bluegrass album; it’s a testament to the genre’s evolving landscape and The David Mayfield Parade’s prominent role within it.
At the heart of the Parade’s compelling sound is the collective talent of its members. David Mayfield himself leads the charge on guitar and vocals, his distinctive voice weaving through each track with both earnestness and playful swagger. He’s backed by a stellar lineup: Ryan Wallen on resophonic guitar, Graham Bell on bass, Steven Moore on banjo, and Keith Wallen on mandolin, all contributing rich lead and harmony vocals that form the band’s signature layered sound. The synergy between these musicians is palpable, a fluid conversation of strings and voices that feels both spontaneous and impeccably tight.
Adding to the album’s allure are two revered special guests. Bluegrass titan Tim O’Brien, who also takes the reins as producer, lends his fiddle to the reflective “Face Your Life” and his bouzouki and harmony vocals to the spiritually resonant “At Your Throne.” O’Brien’s Midas touch in the production chair is evident throughout, allowing the band’s formidable talents to shine while crafting an overarching sound that is crisp, vibrant, and deeply authentic. Additionally, Troy Boone’s guitar work on “Daytime Moon” adds another layer of texture, showcasing the band’s willingness to collaborate and explore.
Go Big and Go Home isn’t content to simply revisit past successes. The album pushes forward, demonstrating a sophisticated songwriting sensibility paired with the band’s characteristic instrumental prowess. Early singles have already made waves, hinting at the depth and diversity within the full release. The accompanying music videos have further amplified the excitement, offering visual interpretations that match the music’s dynamic energy.
A Track-by-Track Journey:
The album kicks off with the brisk “Time’s Winding Up” (2:48), a driving opener that immediately establishes the band’s energy and vocal harmonies. It’s a classic bluegrass sprint, setting a high bar from the first note.
“Face Your Life” (4:49), featuring Tim O’Brien on fiddle, is a more contemplative piece. Its longer runtime allows for instrumental exploration, and O’Brien’s fiddle adds a melancholic beauty that perfectly complements the song’s introspective lyrics. This track showcases the band’s ability to shift gears, proving their versatility beyond high-tempo numbers.
Next up is “Daytime Moon” (3:27), where Troy Boone’s guitar adds a fresh dimension. This track has a particularly catchy melody and a more modern feel, hinting at the Parade’s willingness to experiment while still retaining their bluegrass core.
“At Your Throne” (5:19) is a standout, an epic and moving piece where Tim O’Brien’s bouzouki and harmony vocals enrich the spiritual narrative. The song builds beautifully, showcasing the full breadth of the band’s vocal and instrumental harmonies. It’s a track that demands repeat listens, revealing new layers with each hearing.
“Sapphire Town” (4:12) brings back a more classic bluegrass feel with its intricate picking and evocative storytelling. The harmonies are particularly strong here, creating a rich tapestry of sound.
“Lord Comes Down” (3:21) maintains the album’s vibrant energy, a testament to the band’s cohesive sound. It’s a track that feels both familiar and fresh, a hallmark of their best work.
“The Line” (3:14) offers a mid-tempo groove, allowing the individual instruments to breathe and showcasing the nuanced interplay between Mayfield’s lead vocals and the strong backing harmonies.
“Never Knew I Could” (3:26) is a pleasant surprise, perhaps a more introspective track that highlights Mayfield’s vocal range and emotional depth. It’s a testament to the band’s songwriting maturity.
The album then ventures into narrative with “The Old Bronson Church” (3:30), a song likely steeped in the storytelling tradition of bluegrass, painting vivid pictures with its lyrics and instrumentation.
Finally, “Papaw’s Spirit” (3:10) closes the album, promising a poignant and heartfelt conclusion. Given the title, it likely delves into themes of heritage and legacy, a fitting end to an album that both honors tradition and embraces innovation.
In Go Big and Go Home, The David Mayfield Parade has not just delivered an album; they’ve delivered an experience. It’s an album that should resonate with long-time bluegrass aficionados and newcomers alike, a testament to the genre’s enduring power when wielded by such talented and thoughtful musicians. This is an album that proves The David Mayfield Parade is not only going big but bringing bluegrass home to a whole new generation.