3 Stars
Though the genre and vocal styling of Chris Thompson & The Coral Creek String Band may not appeal to all audiences, there is an undeniable skill and energy conveyed through the instrumentation that could turn any foot into a fevered tapping frenzy. The fiddle and mandolin provide lively undertones that blend well with the rhythmic, driving bass and percussion instruments, all coalescing together to form something beyond just a bluegrass or jam band and giving Chris Thompson & The Coral Creek String Band their own unique flavor. Both “BP Song” and “The Awakening” showcase the quick and vivacious tendencies of the band, while “Cucumber Gulch” affords them the opportunity to slow down and really take advantage of the expressive ability each instruments provides. “Lonesome Fiddle Blues” may be a recognizable bluegrass standard to some, but everyone will enjoy the thrilling rush each musician seems to be relishing in as they perform. Forty Years may not win over all audiences, but anyone with an ear for talent and a foot to tap will enjoy an incredibly spirited album.
– Ben Zorich
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