Early Years: 1951-1959
is a four-disc box set that presents all of
Reno & Smiley & the Tennessee Cutups'
recordings for King Records in chronological order, as well as four sides they recorded for Federal as supporting musicians for
Tommy Magness
. The set contains many of
Reno & Smiley's
finest and most influential moments, most of which feature the support of bassist
John Palmer
and fiddler
Mack MaGaha
. As a historical recording,
Early Years: 1951-59
is invaluable, since it documents the greatest recordings from one of the best bluegrass groups in history. However, it is difficult listen -- this is educational listening, and is not intended for entertainment. For musicologists and dedicated fans, it's a necessary purchase, but country and bluegrass fans intending to build a basic bluegrass collection don't need to purchase this set. ~ Thom Owens