Search - Jones & Leva :: Vertie's Dream

?Vertie?s Dream? is the latest offering by Jones and Leva, the Virginia-based duo known for their spine-tingling duets and classic original songs. This, their third nationally-distributed release, adds significantly to their reputation as being at the forefront of today?s singer-songwriter movement. In contrast to earlier recordings, this CD incorporates several choice traditional tracks with their own original material to arrive at a work that mirrors their engaging stage performances. In her notes to the recording, Suzanne Thomas succinctly describes the success of ?Vertie?s Dream? by stating: ?First, there is the carefully chosen and beautifully crafted material, a mix of old and new, providing a link between their songwriting and their traditional backgrounds? Then there is the instrumental work, that sense of timeless timing ? groove, if you will ? that is uniquely theirs. But most of all, there is the singing. The singing is extraordinary. To my ears, Jones and Leva are the very best vocal duet on the scene today.? The recording is further bolstered by the appearance of mandolin virtuoso John Reischman, banjoists Mike Seeger and Dave Winston, and bass player Dave Grant. Despite their relative youth, Jones and Leva have a combined total of 50 years of immersion in traditional Appalachian music. Their dedication to their craft is acknowledged in a string of quotes from notable high-profile sources: Pulse says, ?Jones and Leva sing with a sophistication and compassion that turns simple moments into art;? Art Menius writes: ??they add daring harmonic ideas and unexpected chords without losing sight of rural American music;? The Washington Post praises their ?Timeless poetic and affecting songs?.;? Crossroads says, ?This music is rooted in tradition, but is still young, fresh and powerful.? Prior recordings have graced Gavin?s Americana charts, and been listed among the Top Ten recordings of the year from Berkeley to Montreal. In the past two years Jones and Leva have been featured in articles in Acoustic Guitar, Sing Out!, No Depression, and Pulse!. They were also named among the top thirty artists of the new generation of acoustic musicians by Acoustic Guitar magazine. Jones and Leva have brought their unique brand of original mountain music to such festivals as MerleFest, Rocky Grass, Strawberry, Live Oak, Bele Chere, IBMA FanFest, and Vancouver Bluegrass. The duo will be showcasing ?Vertie?s Dream? before enthusiastic audiences at choice venues this spring and summer.