Album Profile
Ralph Stanley II
This One Is Two
PRODUCTION NOTES
"This One Is Two," the fifth solo album by Ralph Stanley II, represents a bold stylistic shift toward honky-tonk country while retaining bluegrass roots. Released on September 23, 2008, by Lonesome Day Records (catalog LDR-013), it followed a six-year hiatus from his previous solo work, allowing Stanley's voice to mature into a deeper, resonant baritone suited to the material. The project was executive-produced by Randall Deaton, with Mike (Michael) Latterell credited as producer, audio engineer, and mixer—initially hired only as engineer but evolving into a key production role that delivered the album's crisp, polished sound. Recording occurred at Lonesome Day Records and The Peaceway Temple facilities. Mastering was handled by Hank Williams at Mastermix in Nashville, providing professional clarity and emotional punch.
Musically, the 11-track album (approximately 35 minutes) features no drums or pedal steel, emphasizing traditional acoustic instrumentation for a straightforward honky-tonk feel. Ralph Stanley II provides rhythm guitar and lead vocals throughout. Guitar work is shared by Cody Kilby and Tim Crouch (who also adds evocative fiddle). Adam Steffey delivers precise mandolin, Ron Stewart supplies dynamic banjo, Harold Nixon offers solid bass, and Randy Kohrs contributes resonant Dobro/resophonic guitar. Harmony vocals shine with contributions from Dale Ann Bradley, Darrin Vincent, Jim Lauderdale (dueting on "L.A. County"), Marty Raybon, and Steve Gulley, creating rich, layered support.
The repertoire includes nine covers from songwriters like Garth Brooks, Lyle Lovett, Townes Van Zandt, Elton John, and Tom T. Hall, plus two co-written originals ("Honky Tonk Way" and "Lord Help Me Find the Way"). Standouts include the poignant Fred Eaglesmith cover "Carter" and sentimental bluegrass ballad "Moms Are the Reason Wild Flowers Grow."
Critically acclaimed for bridging genres authentically, the album earned praise for its musicianship and production. AllMusic reviewer j. poet lauded Stanley's gruff, sincere vocals, Kohrs' sobbing Dobro, Steffey's mandolin, and the band's understated picking, noting how tracks like "L.A. County" intensify emotional depth without clichés. Bluegrass Today highlighted the "appealing" music's broad draw, crediting Latterell's engineering for sparkle and cohesion. Reviews called it Stanley's best to date, appreciating the slick yet heartfelt sound and strong song choices. Overall, "This One Is Two" showcases superior ensemble work, emotionally charged performances, and thoughtful production, marking significant artistic growth for Ralph Stanley II in roots music.
TRACK LISTINGS
1. Cold Shoulder
2. Georgia
3. They Say I'll Never Go Home
4. L.A. County
5. Train Songs
6. Moms Are The Reason Wild Flowers Grow
7. Carter
8. Honky Tonk Way
9. If This Old Guitar Could Talk
10. Loretta
11. Lord Help Me Find The Way
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