When hearing a person sing for the first time, the listener – seasoned or not — knows within the first few seconds whether the singer “has it” — or doesn’t have it. Carrie Hassler definitely “has it!” Hassler’s voice has a dynamic and a range that could represent any genre of music she chooses. Luckily, she has chosen bluegrass.

Her debut CD, “Carrie Hassler and Hard Rain,” is a solid, hard-driving and well-done example of what new bluegrass is all about. Produced by Jim Van Cleve, fiddle player for the band Mountain Heart, this album has a lot to offer for traditional bluegrass fans, as well as those who lean toward more contemporary sounds.

Carrie Hassler and Hard Rain

Let it be said, this is not just a Carrie Hassler CD. The band, Hard Rain, deserves its own praise for being a stellar group of truly inspiring musicians. These boys can flat out pick! Kevin Mckinnon, mandolin; Keith McKinnon, guitar; Josh Swift, resophonic guitar; Josh Miller on banjo, and bassist Travis Anderson are all young and accomplished musicians who add as much to this CD as Hassler herself.

Not convinced? Check out the cut “Going On The Next Train.” Hard Rain puts the train in overdrive and blows the wheels off the track.

The tune, ” Sensabaugh Tunnel,” is reminiscent of the instrumental perfection of the old “Strength in Numbers” CD. The arrangement is not only technically solid, but is tasteful, leaving all of us shade-tree pickers in the dust.

For you traditional fans, give the old Carter Stanley tune, “Our Last Goodbye,” a listen. Hassler’s voice gives this tune that longed-for lonesome feeling we all love.

The old country classic, “Leavin’ On Your Mind”, is not just another Patsy Cline remake. Hassler gives it her own unique feel, and it comes across to the listener as a somewhat original song.

“Seven Miles From Wichita” is a tune that not only could receive “Top 40 Country” air play, it deserves to. This is a very tasteful tune that could and should become a standard.

I truly hope this band will stand the test of time. It is my prediction that with a few years and albums under their belt, Carrie Hassler and Hard Rain can and will be a force to be reckoned with in the bluegrass world. This CD has quickly become one of my favorites. If you haven’t already, buy this album. It’s a great example of what new talent is out there.

by Bob Dieterlen