Joseph Allred – “The Groundhog”

A real nice surprise announcement from site fave Joseph Allred landed yesterday. The songwriter is always prolific, but breaks up their string of solo releases for one of the most orchestrated offerings since the excellent Branches and Trees. Joseph’s often monastic guitar works are fleshed out here, turning them towards ensemble visions of country, Americana, and Appalachia. Album opener, “The Groundhog,” features the distinctive piano of Hans Chew, with bass from Daniel Kimbro and brass from Mikey Allred. Elsewhere the new album features Kelby Clark, Courtney Werner (Magic Tuber String Band), Evan Morgan (Magic Tuber String Band), Lydian Bramblia, and Jack Bird in the mix. “The Groundhog” has a pleasant amble to it, something sunny that feels caught on the cool air; hammock swung and sweet. The new record, Old Time Fantasias, is out June 13th from Scissor Tail Records.

Support the artist. Buy it HERE.