Best-known for his work as a vocalist, guitarist, and mandolin player of Alison Krauss and Union Station, bluegrass sensation Dan Tyminski released his sophomore studio album Wheels on June 17, 2008, via his record label, Rounder Records.
Tyminski produced this solo project himself, and was also involved in its engineering and mixing.
Wheels was honored as the 2009 “Album of the Year” at the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) awards, and thanks to this record, Tyminski also took home the “Male Vocalist of the Year” trophy that year.
Background on the Dan Tyminski Band
The Dan Tyminski Band consists of five multi-talented musicians: Dan Tyminski on lead vocals and guitar, Adam Steffey on mandolin, Barry Bales on bass and baritone vocals, Ron Stewart on banjo and fiddle, as well as Justin Moses on tenor vocals and fiddle.
Tracks on the Album
The record opens with its superb up-tempo title track “Wheels.” It is followed by “Whose Shoulder Will You Cry On,” which was co-written by country queen Kitty Wells, who also had a Top 10 hit with the tune in 1955.
“Making Hay” is a soothing ballad by Tyminski, where Barry and Justin shine on harmony vocals. In “How Long Is This Train,” veteran country star Vince Gill makes a cameo, lending his tenor vocals on the recording.
The album features two songs written by Tyminski’s fellow Union Station bandmate, Ron Block. These include the up-tempo “It All Comes Down To You,” and “The One You Lean On,” where Block showcases his ability on rhythm guitar.
Block’s “The One You Lean On” is one of the highlight tracks on the album, due to its exquisite vocals by Dan, Justin and Barry, and the inspiring message attached to it. It is definitely worthy of the repeat button on one’s CD player.
“Knock Knock,” written by Adam Steffey, is an instrumental masterpiece, featuring all five musicians at the top of their game.
“How Many Times,” which deals with a breakup, is the only track on the record where Tyminski is the sole songwriter.
In the closing song “Some Early Morning,” Sharon and Cheryl White lend their mellifluous vocals on harmony, which perfectly compliment Tyminski’s rich, tenor voice.
The Verdict
Dan Tyminski’s Wheels is a breath of fresh air! All of its songs are versatile, featuring smooth lead vocals from Dan, as well as stunning instrumentals from its musicians (Adam, Barry, Justin, Ron Stewart and Ron Block).
Tyminski is by far one of the greatest male vocalists the bluegrass genre has ever known since Ralph Stanley and Larry Sparks. This 12-track CD is an asset to any bluegrass or traditional country music listener’s album collection.
To learn more about Dan Tyminski, visit his official website.
Markos Papadatos - Markos Papadatos holds over six years journalism experience, authoring over 700 articles, many of which are feature profile interviews.
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