You know, I have to say that I’m not a big fan of a lot of country music or bluegrass. However, I fully acknowledge that bluegrass music features some really amazing musicianship. Well, this set from the quartet Arkansauce confirms that. This music has a decent range of sounds and even leans toward things like prog, classical music and jazz at times.

The picking that gets this started is melodic and classy. The track builds out gradually until the vocals join. It’s an energetic bluegrass tune with a bit of a hippie vibe to it.

This bouncy instrumental jam is so much fun. It’s pure bluegrass goodness.

Downhome country is on the menu here. For some reason I’m reminded just a little of Arlo Guthrie on this tune.

I really love the energy and groove of this track. The tune has the killer instrumental work you expect, but something about it just gels in intriguing ways here.

Another instrumental piece, this actually wanders toward classical music and even prog in some ways. Yet, it’s still pure bluegrass.

While still bluegrass based, this has more pure country music in the mix.

The melodies and vibe on this are both so compelling and powerful. This is a particularly fun folk meets bluegrass number.

Another instrumental, you would think given the title that this would be silly, but there is a certain serious sense of magic built into it. There are even some moments that hint at jazz.

Much more of a downhome sound is on display here.

Fast paced bluegrass is the concept here. This has a downhome angle and is a lot of fun with some great picking. The extended jam later in the piece is on fire.

The closing instrumental covers a good amount of territory in its bluegrass jamming. It’s another tune that leans toward the folk music end of things.