photo by Joseph Spence; photo courtesy of Compass Records

Single Review of Alison Brown & Steve Martin: “5 Days Out, 2 Days Back” feat. Tim O’Brien (Compass Records)

I’ve been getting a few bluegrass songs sent my way lately, and “5 Days Out, 2 Days Back” is a bluegrass number that simply jumps right off the vinyl, metaphorically speaking. A cool tune you’ve really gotta hear! Alison Brown and Steve Martin teamed up with several top players, notably including featured vocalist/mandolinist Tim O’Brien.

image courtesy of Compass Records

The song’s topic is something touring musicians – particularly those with families – will relate to with ease. But it’s really not that hard for anyone to relate, negotiating time away versus time with family, cleverly phrased making it a fun listen. Of course, lyrics alone don’t make a song, and it’s really the tune, its delivery, and cheerfully plucked, energetic style that are the catchiest, most enduring part of “5 Days Out, 2 Days Back.”

Martin’s lyrics, Brown’s melody, and O’Brien’s vocals are an ideal blend for a song that’ll appeal beyond its genre’s core fans. Indeed, while familiar, the song’s structure doesn’t always turn in the most typical direction, helping the music remain fresh across multiple listens, while the rich, warm, and sincere vocals provide a trustworthy narration with a cheerful, pleasant tone.

In any case, bluegrass fan or not, if you enjoy well-written songs – perhaps singer-songwriter types of songs, though this would be more of a singer-songwriter trio – give “5 Days Out, 2 Days Back” a listen.