From the January 2004 issue of Bluegrass Now Magazine (unedited)

Down To The Wood

Up All Night

(Self-released)

Energy and personality will take a band far within the bluegrass world. When the players and singers back up their exuberance with an original approach, one that creates an identifiable sound, the band is destined for the long haul. Down To The Wood is a band deserving of all the praise that has been sent their way.

With all due respect to those that have ploughed this most fertile of ground, I have never more enjoyed an Alberta bluegrass band than Down To The Wood. With infectious stage enthusiasm and palatable vocal and instrumental talent, this trio from in and about Edmonton has a love for the music that sparkles.

Having performed together for over three years, DTTW's debut album is a treat. Sonically, Up All Night favorably resembles the band's varied, carefully paced live sets. Those familiar with DTTW will find few surprises- strong harmonic blends, distinctive lead vocals, and crackerjack instrumentation that is firmly in the pocket. Their arrangements, while not necessarily Monroe-like, will appeal to those who appreciate straightforward acoustic sounds.

With an emphasis on vocal diversity, all members are given opportunity to take the spotlight. Alongside spot-on bass work, Glen Hoffart's lead singing has matured with the lonesome futility of "Another Night"perfectly suited to his voice. Similarly, Curtis Appleton's vocal efforts, most notably on "Only Time Can Mend a Broken Heart," are of a superior quality. Marc Ladouceur's gentle folk leanings are highlighted on "Rambler's Blues" and the brilliant melding of "Crossroad Blues"/"The Old Crossroads Is Waiting." Instrumentally, his Martin HD-28V sounds so good with flatpicking from one recognized as a master at his craft. To top it off, Ladouceur ably doubles on mandolin.

DTTW inhabit an acoustic folkway that binds bluegrass with the 'brother'country music of yesteryear- the Louvins, the Delmores, and their contemporaries. Never is this so obvious as on the classic country-tinged number, "Making Plans;" with three voices blending around minimal instrumentation, DTTW achieve a sound that is retrofresh and stunning.

The album's production could not be more pleasing. "On Lonely Side of Town," one can 'see' instruments advancing and retreating from the mic during breaks. There is an abundance of 'space' on this album, with musical camaraderie providing room for the musicians- and their instruments- to breathe.

Appleton's fine original, "Shameless Drive" is an engaging number but as the only original on the release one hopes next time DTTW brings more band-written material to disc.

Down To The Wood took their time with this album, developing and nurturing a sound over the course of time. They know the impact they want their band to impart and have achieved their goal- a sound that is fiercely protective of the bluegrass aesthetic while embracing the freedom offered by a trio.