Play It Like It Is by The Country Gentlemen, released on Rebel in 1969, arrives near the height of the Washington DC band's creative powers. The Gentlemen — with John Duffey, Charlie Waller, Eddie Adcock, and Tom Gray in their classic configuration — had by this point refined a progressive bluegrass sound that embraced outside material, jazz-influenced arrangements, and sophisticated vocal harmonies without abandoning instrumental authority. This album reflects that synthesis, featuring the kind of eclectic song selection and clean ensemble playing that made the band a touchstone for the progressive wing of bluegrass. Duffey's mandolin work and his and Waller's vocal interplay remain exemplary throughout.
Tracklist
- 1 He was a friend of mine
- 2 Daybreak in Dixie alt version 2:07
- 3 Some Old Day alt version
- 4 Raggy mountain shakedown
- 5 Banana boat song
- 6 Goin’ to the Races alt version 2:20
- 7 Waiting for the boys
- 8 Darling little Joe
- 9 El dedo
- 10 Mary dear
- 11 Blue Ridge Mountain Home alt version
- 12 Take me in a life boat 2:40
- 13 Take Me in Your Lifeboat alt version
