Virginian string band Old Crow Medicine Show have a fearsome live reputation, but it’s one that has never quite translated to disc. Previous albums have been good but uneven. No problems like that here, though, as this time around they have struck the balance between raw energy and a dynamic mix of tight harmonies and intricate playing, featuring a strong acoustic bass and the familiar interplay of fiddles, banjos, mandolins and acoustic guitars – this is consistently classy. If there’s one noticeable development, sound-wise, then it’s the influence of the rockier side of Bob Dylan’s singing style on several numbers. Lo and behold track three, ‘Sweet Amarillo’, is a very catchy tune and is a Dylan–OCMS co-write that could have come straight from Dylan’s mid-70s Desire era. Other tracks resonate with mid-60s Dylan folk-rock references. As well as the hard-driving bluegrass numbers there are some quiet moments of reflection and sadness, such as in ‘Dearly Departed Friend’. ‘Doc’s Day’ is a statement from the band about what they love about old-time music and a tribute to the great Doc Watson.

Paul Barr