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"Here is something of a surprise package from a couple of talented North Carolina pickers,
Tony Rook and Steve Wood. "Labor of Love" is just that, a collection of 14 original pieces
teaturing Tony (guitar, banjo, resonator guitar, and vocals) and Steve (mandolin, bass, and vocals)
performing all parts through the magic of studio overdubbing. The duo almost equally shares the
composer duties, with Tony churning out pieces like "You Left Me", "So Hard On Yourself",
and the instrumental "Steeplechase", while Steve contributes "Don't Take You Love",
"Old Fashion Way", and "What Part Of No". Both share the credits for the title song.
Throughout this production, both the instrumentation and the vocals are consistently on
the cutting edge of perfection making it one of the most underrated efforts that this
reviewer has recently encountered. Say no more, "Labor of Love" is certainly a worthy
addition to any serious bluegrass collection. Expect to hear much more from Tony Rook
and Steve Wood in the future." Reprinted by permission Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine, 1-800-BLU-GRAS 1/2001. All rights reserved. No reprints allowed without direct permission from the publisher. Les McIntyre - Bluegrass Unlimited "Local musicians Tony Rook and Steve Wood have put together a long list of original songs for this CD that are both well written and well played. Tony, formerly with The Eno Ramblers, plays banjo, guitar, dobjo and provides lead and harmony vocals. Steve is featured on mandolin, bass and vocals. On the technical side, the timing is impeccable, the vocals are sharp amd clear, and the mix is perfect. But where the CD really shines is in the words and melodies. Many tunes nowadays lack anything resembling a melody. With this CD, I found myself humming several of the songs to myself even without the CD playing - the melodies and the words lend themselves to being remembered. The solos are tastful and truthful to the melodies, as well. My favorite tune of the bunch is "When I Go' a gospel number with fantastic harmonies and, of course, a wonderful melody and nice solos. "Brass Ring" is one I remember from The Eno Rambler days. The words bring home many of the truths of life. The title track is reminiscent of a Beatles' class song. That is to say, it has a great melody with intermittent harmonies, quite varying instrument tones, and a slow pace that allows the listener to become absorbed." Mike Acquesta - Banjo In The Hollow |