Album Profile
Randy Kohrs
I'm Torn
PRODUCTION NOTES
The album I’m Torn, released in 2004 on Lonesome Day Records, signifies a pivotal bluegrass pivot for Randy Kohrs after his country explorations, establishing him as a multifaceted force with strong tenor vocals, multi-instrumental expertise (resonator guitar/Dobro, acoustic guitar, mandolin, banjo, bass, and more), and songwriting depth. Kohrs self-produced the project across Nashville-area studios like Slack Key, Two Monkey’s, and Digital Underground, achieving a crisp, organic acoustic sound that highlights precise picking, rich harmonies, and emotional narratives—clocking in at about 36 minutes across 11 tracks, with a focus on traditional bluegrass drive infused with contemporary lyrical introspection on love, loss, faith, and heritage.
The title track “I’m Torn” (2:50) kicks off with urgent rhythms exploring romantic dilemmas, while standouts like the upbeat “Take Me Back” (2:58), the gospel-infused “Hurry Back Jesus” (2:23), the tender “Handmade Nails and Homemade Love” (3:04), the widow’s reflection “Fifty Good Years” (4:00), and the narrative “Mountain Stone” (1:59) showcase Kohrs’ versatile originals. A standout is the poignant duet “It Looked Good On Paper” (4:07) with Dolly Parton, whose warm harmonies mesh perfectly with Kohrs’ tenor on this divorce-themed ballad, drawing from their shared touring history and adding crossover appeal that elevates the album’s emotional core.
Kohrs leads with his signature Dobro and vocals, supported by an elite ensemble including Stephen Mougin (guitar), Jeff Weaver (bass), Cody Kilby (guitar), Scott Vestal (banjo), Brian Davis and Maggie Davis(contributions on guitar and bass, respectively), Pat Wages (banjo), and others like Shaunna Larkin-Kohrs (fiddle/viola/vocals), Tim Crouch(fiddle), Aaron Ramsey (mandolin), Josh Williams (mandolin), Don Rigsby (vocals), and Carl Jackson (vocals). Their contributions deliver fluid fiddle lines, crisp banjo rolls, and resonant fills, creating a tight, spirited sound that honors bluegrass roots.
Critically acclaimed, I’m Torn drew praise for its authenticity and appeal. Country Standard Time called it a “sterling collection” superior to flashier releases, highlighting Kohrs’ tenor, songwriting, and the Parton duet. Rambles.net hailed it as a “mountain music lover’s delight,” comparing it to Bill Monroe or Ricky Skaggs for bridging generations. True West lauded Kohrs’ vocal standout, while Bluegrass Unlimited noted the duet’s impact. This release solidified Kohrs’ shift from sideman (with Tom T. Hall, Rhonda Vincent) to leader, enduring as a Lonesome Day gem.
TRACK LISTINGS
1. I'm Torn
2. Take Me Back
3. It Looked Good On Paper (duet with Dolly Parton)
4. I See How You Are
5. Handmade Nails & Homemade Love
6. Hurry Back Jesus
7. Fifty Good Years
8. Passion's Price
9. An Old Memory
10. That's What I've learned (from lovin' you)
11. Mountain Stone
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SOUND CLIPS
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