Old Buck: Old Buck

Nothing makes me feel like a schmuck like the temptation to deploy “back to basics” as a descriptor for this group of wily string-band enthusiasts. Sure, the playing is powerful and polished, and the tune selection demonstrates a fine ear and a keen instinct, but the point here might be not to overthink things. Think of Old Buck then as the anti-Punch Brothers, virtuosos careful to never seem virtuosic, deeply knowledgeable about the tradition without feeling the need to exude that knowledge. The effect of all that is a fun, joyous album. Whether or not you know how to flatfoot dance, you’ll end up on your feet giving that awkward shuffle a go.