Beyond the Shadows

Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver have gained a rep as excellent musicians and as the premiere bluegrass-gospel group. Beyond the Shadows was originally released in 1986, and has been reissued with no additional tracks in 2004. Mandolinist Lawson is joined by guitarist Russell Moore, banjoist Scott Vestal, and bassist Curtis Vestal for a straightforward set of old-time gospel favorites, including "By the Side of the Road," "We'll Sing in Gloryland," and "My Lord Delivered Me." There are also guest appearances by steel guitar/Dobro player Mike Auldridge of Seldom Scene fame. Interestingly, the band's musicianship, as good as it is, takes a back seat to the vocals. Both Lawson and Moore are good lead singers, but the real talent of this group is its four-part harmonies. The presence of four singers not only allows for silky smooth harmonies on "When the World's on Fire," but also allows for complex vocal arrangements on "When Life Is Over." Beyond the Shadows, at around 30 minutes, is short by CD standards, but there are no weak links in the dozen selections. This reissue will provide old fans a chance to switch out their scratchy vinyl while providing new fans with yet more evidence of Lawson and Quicksilver's unerring musical vision. ~ Ronnie D. Lankford Jr.