Mike Slauenwhite

With over 50 years of experience as a musician in Canada, fiddler Mike Slauenwhite has plied his trade in almost every imaginable situation. It's earned him the respect of nearly everyone in the field, which has led to Mixing It Up, the first recording under his own name, and a tribute to his virtuosity. The warm recording captures Slauenwhite and his tight ensemble in fine form, running through a selection of tunes that have remained close to Slauenwhite's heart his entire life. As might be expected, he shines most on traditional fiddle standards such as "Devil's Dream" and "Maple Sugar," but in his sure hands, other songs such as "San Antonio Rose" and "Faded Love" are remarkable displays of melodic dexterity. It's time that Canadian country and bluegrass pioneers like Slauenwhite are celebrated. Mixing It Up is an important step in that direction, on top of being a thoroughly enjoyable listen.