Scott Anderson - Rivers (CD, 2001)

by Ben Fitzgerald, 09/15/2004

When a lesser-known player employs the services of familiar names, it lends credibility to the album – but risks overshadowing the soloist’s performance. On his debut album (released in 1999), Scott Anderson calls upon such lofty names as Rob Ickes, John Cowan, Aubrey Haynie, Jim Hurst and Missy Raines. Not only is he comfortable among such players, he distinguishes himself as a competent leader and multi talented banjoist.

Anderson, a resident and working musician in the Florida region, provides us with the most refreshing of musical approaches by putting the music above the performance. Because he lets the songs and melodies themselves guide the direction of each piece, indicating no desire to showcase his talents, Anderson has produced a fine and listenable CD. This is banjo playing at it’s most enjoyable.

Displaying his talents for both Scruggs and Melodic style picking, Anderson tackles a wide range of songs on Rivers, including five of his own compositions that demonstrate he is much more than just a talented mimic. The first Anderson track, Ruby Falls, is a melodic-style tune as engaging as anything delivered by Jens Kruger, and played with equal vigor. Ichetucknee, a moving ballad for his favorite river, and Cuttin’ Melons, a hard-driving bluegrass number, seal the deal on the dexterity of his writing abilities.

But perhaps the most unique quality of Rivers is its distribution of talent, allowing each musician a chance to shine beyond their instrumental breaks. With several musicians contributing their own songs, and lead vocals being shared by no less than five equally talented singers, the CD lends its self to repeated listening. What’s more, the sound quality is perfect. Engineered by Scott Vestal, creator of the Stealth Banjo (used exclusively on this album), the CD successfully creates the atmosphere of what would be one helluva front-porch pickin’ session.

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