The album Took Down and Put Up, released in 2007 on Lonesome Day Records (LDR-011), features Larry Cordle fronting his acclaimed band Lonesome Standard Time in a robust traditional bluegrass collection of 13 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes. As an award-winning songwriter (notably “Murder on Music Row”) and veteran performer, Cordle delivers heartfelt originals and select covers that explore life’s hardships, rural heritage, loss, redemption, and bluegrass legacy through his distinctive baritone and masterful storytelling.

Produced by Larry Cordle, Randy Kohrs, and Lonesome Standard Time, the album achieves a warm, organic sound with crisp acoustic separation, driving rhythms, and rich harmonies—hallmarks of Lonesome Day’s rootsy yet polished production, spotlighting the band’s chemistry from years of regular touring.

The tracklist highlights strong originals and narratives, including “I Can’t Lose What I Never Had” (2:25), “The First Train Robbery” (3:48, by Chris Stuart, released as a single), “Hole in the Ground” (4:11), the poignant “Song for Keith” (4:12, a tribute to Keith Whitley), and “Rough Around the Edges” (4:05)—a standout rowdy courtship song co-written by Cordle with J.P. Pennington and Les Taylor, featuring a powerful duet with country star Travis Tritt (who originally recorded it on his 1998 album). Their alternating leads and harmonies bring grit and authenticity, blending bluegrass drive with country edge for one of the album’s most memorable moments. Other cuts like ”’67 Chevy Malibu”, “The Hero of the Creek”, and more round out the set, with nine tracks as Cordle originals or co-writes mixing high-energy picking, tender ballads, and reflective themes.

Lonesome Standard Time anchors the sound: Chris Davis (mandolin, vocals), Mike Anglin (bass, vocals), Booie Beach (lead guitar), Kristin Scott Benson (banjo), and Kim Gardner (Dobro/resonator)—providing precise rolls, tasteful fills, and seamless support. Additional contributions include Clay Hess (acoustic guitar on select tracks) and Randy Kohrs(backing vocals on track 2, plus duet vocals elsewhere), enhancing the cohesive, band-driven energy.

Critically praised for its authenticity and craftsmanship, Took Down and Put Up earned acclaim from Enjoy the Music.com for excellent musicianship and Cordle’s songwriting; Twangville called it an “excellent Bluegrass album” with superb traditional style; Bluegrass Unlimited highlighted the outstanding originals and heartfelt delivery; and Country Standard Time noted its evocation of a passing way of life, nodding to jam sessions with icons like Ricky Skaggs and Keith Whitley. The album debuted strongly and remains a standout in Cordle’s catalog and the Lonesome Day series, appealing to fans of classic bluegrass storytelling and elite picking.