Album Review of
From Texas to Tennessee

Written by Joe Ross
March 20, 2019 - 12:00am EDT
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What a surprise it was to hear the debut release from this young, energetic Tennessee-based family bluegrass band. The material is nicely arranged, and the talented players have chops well beyond their years. We hear beautiful vocals, soaring harmonies and creative breaks. Their rendition of “Softly & Tenderly” is heart-warming. Besides a few nods to traditional bluegrass (e.g. Bill Monroe’s “Uncle Pen”), the album closes with the show-stopper “Orange Blossom Special” performed live at Dollywood with guest Klondike Katie. The Family Sowell also includes some original material on the project. “Dusty Gravel Road” is the story of their father Guynn Sowell’s childhood life of playing, hunting, fishing, plowing fields, hauling hay and praying in rural Mississippi. “Pilgrim’s Prayer” is their personal tale of trust, faith, strength and family on the highway to the promised land. “God Knows Who He Is” is a tribute to wounded soldiers who are children of God. Their liner notes say they are still maturing and growing in their music. This album is very timely as the band shows incredible talent and potential. I look forward to hearing much more from them.  (Joe Ross, Roots Music Report)