Billy StringsHighway Prayers

Twenty tracks co-produced with Jon Brion that stretch bluegrass somewhere wider: gospel harmonies, Jerry Douglas dobro, Cory Henry organ, and cello sitting under blistering flatpick runs. On 'Leadfoot' Strings tears off cascades of notes so fast they smear into one bright streak, pure white-knuckle speed. 'Leaning on a Travelin' Song' opens acapella before kicking into a high-lonesome romp. Tradition and adventure pulling in the same direction. Strings sounds like he could go anywhere from here.