James King These Old Pictures (CD)

(Rounder Records) 12 tracks

Bluegrass Unlimited called These Old Pictures, James King's debut album for Rounder, “...the breakthrough album of the year...” from “...the most impressive lead singer to emerge in traditional bluegrass so far this decade.” King sings straight from the heart with a weary note that says, “I've been there. Like every great country singer since Jimmie Rodgers, James King believes in what he's singing, and that makes all the difference. He's the real deal, the kind of singer that makes bluegrass what it is so great. And if it takes a troubled man to sing a troubled song, what does it take to sing a lonely song? It's simple: James King knows loneliness. And much more. - adapted from the liner notes by Jon Hartley Fox