The Dead South sounds like bluegrass, what with the lightning-fast banjo picking and all. But there's also mandolin, guitar and cello in the mix. So take that bluegrass, add a healthy dash of folk and stir in plenty of whatever the hell americana is anyway.

The Dead South Sugar & Joy (Six Shooter Records)

These songs are much more aligned with the folk tradition than bluegrass. The singing is the most formal part of the performance, reminding me of the Kingston Trio at times when the harmonies really start rolling. With a lot more pickin'. Grinnin' at times, but not always.

All in all, these boys aren't easy to categorize. They take a ramble over a large swath of uneven land, and the results are something close to spectacular. These songs have real kick.

Not yer pappy's bluegrass, but not some annoying mashup (Gangstagrass, anyone?) either. This sucker starts hot and then revs the engine. Don't postpone joy.

Jon Worley