My new favorite CD is “The Crow: New Songs for the Five-String Banjo” by Steve Martin. Yes — that Steve Martin. We all remember him strumming on the banjo as part of his stand-up comedy act, but turns out he’s a serious and seriously talented banjo composer and player. On the surface, the tracks here — Martin wrote 14 of the 15 — are foot-stompin’ bluegrass at its best. Even our 16-month-old grandson, Capt. Adorable, dances along when the strummin’ and the fiddlin’ start! But “The Crow” is so much more than a banjo homage — it’s a celebration of life and love and friends and family. Martin’s songs tap into such authentic emotion that you’ll wonder how the “wild and crazy guy” from Saturday Night Live could write such a sweet song as “Pretty Flowers” or such a heart-pulling melody as “Words Unspoken.” I’m telling you, you’ve got to buy this CD. And I’m talking the real actual CD here. Oh, sure, you could be all cool and modern and download it for your laptop or MP3 player, but then you’d miss out on the delightful CD book that explains the background for each song and honors Martin’s friends — such as music greats Dolly Parton, Earl Scruggs and Vince Gill — who help out on the album. “The Crow” is a must-have winner. Go listen. Now.
Coffee with Cathy
Pour a cup & take a break
Coffee with Cathy 
I will have to check it out. Love Steve Martin!
I once saw Steve Martin interviewed and I was mesmerized at how deep he is and a person I would love to sit down and chat with. I felt that the “comedian” side of Steve was but one tiny aspect of this hugely talented man. That music sounds uplifting!! Thanks for the recommend!
I HAVE to have this CD. Bluegrass is my all-time favorite. The only thing better? Bluegrass Gospel.
Who would’ve thought, all those years ago, that such a wildly funny man could be such a tremendous musician? I love this CD…true talent.
Thanks for the tip. I never would have thought to look for a Steve Martin CD. I love bluebgrass and banjo music.
I saw him on TV recently..who would have thought..he is one good picker! I was VERY impressed:)
Thanks for the heads up on this one, Cathy! Did you read his book?
No, I haven’t. But I heard good things about it. Have you read it?
Here is a link to the specific book I was referring to: http://www.amazon.com/Born-Standing-Up-Comics-Life/dp/1416553657/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpi_1
He has written several.
I skimmed it quickly not too long ago but I found it interesting about his family life growing up. He used magic tricks, banjo playing, and comedy to escape his not so good family life . . . mainly concerning his father. I have always admired him . . .
Thanks for the suggestions. Now I’m definitely putting his new book on my to-read list.
I saw him play a banjo recently on tv and thought it was a joke at first. Then I started to pay attention and was truly impressed.
After reading this post, I am seriously considering buying his CD. Very cool.