Show Of Hands

Driving upbeat tunes like "Longdog," "Broomfield Hill" and "The Blind Fiddler" show an ease with the dynamics of rock culture that connect folk traditions with contemporary life. If this pisses off purists, it enables the rest of us to enjoy a rich and enduring tradition. Ranging from solid ballads like "Exile" and "Cousin Jack" to the sitar-style "The Train/Blackwaterside" and the "frailing banjo" technique of "The Preacher," Show Of Hands animates acoustic roots music with mandolin, slide guitar and violin. This shrewd package showcases a couple of seasoned veterans on top of their musical game.