Album Profile
Jeff Parker
Go Parker!
PRODUCTION NOTES
“Go Parker!,” the second solo album by bluegrass mandolinist and vocalist Jeff Parker, showcases his versatile singing across traditional bluegrass, country, and pop influences. Released on July 10, 2012, by Lonesome Day Records (catalog LDR-038), it followed Parker’s tenure with Lonesome River Band and his role in Dailey & Vincent, marking a return to solo work after his 2004 album “Two Roads to Travel.” Recording occurred at the Lonesome Day studio in early 2012, capturing Parker’s soulful, expressive vocals honed from years on the road.
The project was produced, engineered, and mixed by Randall Deaton, delivering a clean, vibrant sound that highlights acoustic instrumentation with occasional drums for a country edge. The album was mastered by Mike Latterell, ensuring a balanced, radio-ready polish.
Musically, the 12-track album (31 minutes) features Parker on mandolin and lead vocals throughout, blending heartfelt ballads and uptempo numbers. Guitar is provided by Stephen Mougin, offering solid rhythm and leads. Banjo duties are shared by Ned Luberecki, Ron Stewart, and Cia Cherryholmes, who also contributes lead and harmony vocals on a duet. Ron Stewart adds dynamic fiddle work, while Mike Bub anchors on bass. Darrin Vincent supplies bass and harmony vocals on select tracks, enriching the trio sound. Drums were played by Shawn Brock, adding subtle drive to certain cuts and enhancing the crossover appeal without overpowering the bluegrass core. Harmony vocals from the ensemble create rich, emotive layers, supporting themes of love, loss, and rural life.
The song selection includes originals and covers, such as the poignant “Lord I Hate to See My Darlin’ Go,” the lively “Cold Rails,” and pop-infused “It’s Gonna Take a Miracle.” Standouts like “Sweet Mary” and “Plant Some Flowers by My Graveside” demonstrate Parker’s range, from tender crooning to powerful delivery.
Critically, “Go Parker!” was anticipated as a potential breakout, with Bluegrass Today praising its potential as “the next really big album of 2012” for Parker’s wide vocal range spanning genres. Listener reviews on Amazon echoed this, calling it a “great job” with highly recommended material, noting Parker’s prowess as both musician and singer. Overall, the album highlights top-tier bluegrass talent, emotional depth, and seamless production, solidifying Parker’s reputation in roots music while appealing to broad audiences.
TRACK LISTINGS
1. Lord I Hate to See My Darlin' Go
2. Cold Rails
3. Sweet Mary
4. It's Gonna Take a Miracle
5. Plant Some Flowers by My Graveside
6. In My Arms Instead of In My Memory
7. Carolina Mornin's
8. When I Loved You
9. Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)
10. Let's Be Sweethearts Again
11. How Come You Do Me Like You Do
12. Hello Darlin'
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