The Malpass Brothers: Keeping the Flame of Traditional Country Burning Bright
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
In an era where country music often leans into pop sensibilities, The Malpass Brothers stand as staunch defenders of its traditional roots. Their journey, marked by relentless touring, a burgeoning television show, and multiple appearances on the hallowed Grand Ole Opry stage, is a testament to their unwavering commitment.
“We’ve been doing this so long, you’d think we would’ve improved,” Chris Malpass quips, his modesty belying their undeniable growth and success. This self-effacing humor is characteristic of the brothers, who remain grounded despite their rising profile.
Their connection to country music royalty is undeniable. For seven years, Chris and Taylor toured as members of Merle Haggard’s band, an experience that profoundly shaped their artistic and personal trajectories. Taylor recalls joining Haggard on tour the week after graduating high school, a pivotal moment that set the course for his life. Merle’s stern but insightful advice – “you can’t do this half-way… More success only means more work and more challenges to overcome” – proved prophetic. Indeed, their hard work has begotten success, and with it, even more demands on their time and energy.
The brothers often marvel at Haggard’s extraordinary life, from his troubled youth to his meteoric rise as a country music icon. “Merle had lived such an insane life,” Taylor reflects, “to come from where he came from, to getting into trouble, to making something of himself.” Haggard’s transformation, spurred by his discovery of music while incarcerated, serves as a powerful inspiration for Chris and Taylor, underscoring the redemptive power of art.
More than two decades after those formative years with Haggard, his words resonate more strongly than ever. The Malpass Brothers’ calendar is packed with tour dates across the country, and their popularity has soared, culminating in the green light for a second season of their highly successful The Malpass Brothers Show on RFD TV.
Yet, perhaps their most significant achievement came in 2019: their Grand Ole Opry debut. This lifelong dream has since become a recurring reality, with multiple performances on Country Music’s most storied stage. “I would’ve never imagined I would one day go to the bank and cash a check from the Grand Ole Opry,” Taylor shares with genuine surprise, a sentiment that speaks volumes about their humble beginnings and deep respect for the institution.
While grateful for the opportunity to perform there, the ultimate aspiration for Chris and Taylor remains an invitation to join the Opry. “Opry membership would be better than selling a million records,” Chris emphasizes, highlighting the profound significance of such an honor to traditional country artists.
The Malpass Brothers are not only preserving the past but also keenly observing the present, championing artists who share their dedication to traditional country music. They cite Jake Worthington and Zach Top as contemporary artists who are “keeping it country.” They also find immense joy in seeing a growing number of young people in their audiences, a hopeful sign for the genre’s future.
For the Malpass Brothers, music is very much a family affair, not just between them but extending to their own families. Both Chris and Taylor are married with children, acknowledging the toll that life on the road takes. “When their bodies are on the road, their hearts are at home,” a sentiment that resonates with many touring musicians.
Despite the occasional sibling squabble – “Of course we argue – we’re brothers,” Taylor laughs – their bond is an invaluable asset, smoothing the bumps and curves of their demanding lives. Chris proudly boasts of his younger brother’s innate talent: “Taylor is so talented. He doesn’t have to practice. It comes naturally.” Taylor, in turn, acknowledges the blessing of sharing this unique journey with his brother.
Review: Lonely Street – A Timeless Masterpiece
The Malpass Brothers’ latest album, Lonely Street, is a masterclass in traditional country music. Produced by Bluegrass Hall of Fame inductee Doyle Lawson alongside Ben Isaacs (of The Isaacs), and notably engineered by the late Grammy Award-winning Mark Capps, this 12-song collection is a sonic journey back to the golden era of country.
From the opening notes, it’s evident that Lonely Street is more than just an album; it’s a meticulously curated experience. The songs, predominantly penned by Chris Malpass (with co-writes from luminaries like Dickey Lee and Shawn Camp), possess an authenticity that makes them sound as if they were plucked directly from a classic country jukebox. Chris’s songwriting is mature and evocative, weaving tales of heartbreak, longing, and life’s simple truths with poetic grace.
The album also features poignant cover nods, including Merle Haggard’s “Love Slips Away” and Jeannie Seely’s “We Don’t,” showcasing their reverence for the legends who paved the way. These covers are not mere reproductions but heartfelt interpretations that honor the originals while bearing the Malpass Brothers’ distinctive stamp.
The brother-harmony, a hallmark of their sound, is impeccable throughout. Drawing inspiration from bluegrass duos like Jim & Jesse and the Louvin and Wilburn Brothers, Chris and Taylor’s voices blend seamlessly, creating a rich, resonant tapestry that is both comforting and captivating. Taylor’s lead guitar work is precise and tasteful, never overshadowing the vocals but always enhancing the emotional depth of each track.
Lonely Street is a strong contender for their most accomplished project to date. It is a powerful statement from two artists who are not just preserving a genre but actively contributing to its ongoing legacy. For fans of classic country, or anyone seeking authentic, heartfelt music in a world of manufactured sounds, Lonely Street is an essential listen.
The Malpass Brothers are more than just musicians; they are storytellers, historians, and guardians of a treasured American art form. Their dedication to the music, their mentors, and each other is evident in every note they play and every song they sing.
Photo by Kimberly Manning