What Really Matters

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Larry Stephenson delivers one of the finest albums of his career on his Compass Records debut WHAT REALLY MATTERS. The album comes on the heels of the Larry Stephenson Band’s win f or Recorded Event of the Year at the 2010 International Bluegrass Music Awards for his bluegrass star-studded previous effort, 20th Anniversary, Stephenson again teaming up with co-producer Ben Surratt. Armed with 12 outstanding tracks and surrounded by a road-tested band that includes Kenny Ingram (banjo), Kevin Richardson (guitar) and Danny Stewart (bass), Stephenson’s distinctive vocals are showcased to great effect. Standout tracks include Jimmy Martin’s “Beartracks”, the title track and a spirited reworking of “Philadelphia Lawyer” featuring Sam Bush on fiddle and harmony vocals. Larry Stephenson has been a mainstay of the bluegrass circuit since he launched his solo career 20 years ago. He is considered by many to be one of the premiere torchbearers for the traditional bluegrass sound created by first generation legends Jimmy Martin, Mac Wiseman, Jim & Jesse and The Osborne Brothers. Stephenson has received many awards and accolades form the bluegrass community including multiple IBMA award and five Contemporary Male Vocalist of the Year awards from the Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America. “There are a number of things to recommend Larry Stephenson’s approach to traditional bluegrass, but above them all stands his high and lonesome lead vocals.” —All Music Guide “Stephenson has honed his voice into one of the best bluegrass tenors this side of Bobby Osborne.” —Kansas City Star “One of the finest singers in bluegrass” —Country Standard Time Show more