Biography

This recording is dedicated to the first generation of Bluegrass, Country and Folk musicians who inspired me to play music. Bill Monroe, Flatt and Scruggs, The Dillards, Reno and Smiley, Clarence Ashley and of course my old friend Doc Watson, all put a fire in the belly of an eleven year old boy to explore the wonderful realm of music. The guitar pictured on the front cover is "Arthel," the 1945 Martin D-18 Doc used on many of his early records. He gave me the guitar over 25 years ago. After restoring it, I was excited and honored to play this guitar on several of Doc's albums. I had little to do with the title cut of this album. I picked up "Arthel" one day about ten years ago and the tune just came out; as if the notes had been hiding inside the guitar for years. It was a pleasure to bring "Arthel" out of retirement for these tracks. During the sessions for this album I realized how truly blessed I've been to have played music with many of my earliest heroes. I'll never forget their kind encouragement.

Jack Lawrence has been called a "flatpicking powerhouse." His recordings and performances combine exciting, high spirited and innovative guitar solos with tasteful phrasing in his own inventive style. Jack's career spans several decades and began professionally in the early 1970's, where he was a member of several pioneer bands of modern bluegrass, including The New Deal String Band, The Bluegrass Alliance and many others. Well known as Doc Watson's partner from the early 1980's until Doc's passing in 2012, Jack's inspired playing and smooth vocals provide listeners with performances that span musical traditions. Jack has recorded and played with many artists including Doc, David Grisman, Sam Bush, The Del McCoury Band and Mac Wiseman.