The Grascals Long List of Heartaches is a bluegrass CD from a six person, all
male group together since 2004. In only three short years, they have figured out how to make music which people enjoy. Even better, they can create tunes so their music will continue to fly off store shelves.

In 2005, the first self-titled CD was released. It earned not only praise from the International Bluegrass Music Association, but several awards as well. Fans will probably be familiar with "Me and John And Paul," which took home "Song of the Year" honors.

"Hoedown in Motown" tells the story of a couple still enjoying the simple pleasures of country living. Steve Wariner, who co-wrote the song, also performs, adding his acoustic guitar to the mix in an instrumental solo. Between the fiddle, mandolin, and banjo, the effect is pleasing to the ear. It reminded me of people sitting on the back porch who enjoy a bit of light music in the early evening hours.

"Roll Muddy River" has the kind of beat one that makes one want to tap his toes.  Every member of the group combines their vocal talents in order to make a pleasant and memorable tune. The two rhythm guitars are put in up front in order to get the listeners' attention. A fiddle solo takes one down to the river for a day of fly fishing. I can easily see a local dance hall using this to choreograph dance moves.

"Hard Times" is the first fsong with a different lead vocalist. With the first notes of the mandolin opening this piece, I could visualize a prison yard where convicts have just been let out for some "recreation." Jamie Johnson sings about a man down on his luck who manages to put on a cheerful attitude despite troubled times.

"Being Me" is the first song where a guest artist is added to the mix. Having a upright bass start things off was a nice touch. It sets up Dierks Bentley later as co-lead and the result is nice blend of bluegrass twang and resonant bass. This is perhaps my favorite selection, reminding listeners being yourself is the best anyone could ask for.

"You Don't Have Very Far To Go" is a slow number which relates the story of a relationship on the rocks. While heartbreak has yet to occur, it is just over the horizon.

"Did You Forget God Today" uses the singing abilities of the Jordanaires on harmony vocals in this tune. Tommy Mattingly serenades listeners with the soft voice of his fiddle to make this tune into a gospel classic.

"Don't Tell Mama" is probably the most tragic out of all songs, talking of a terrible choice made with a young man dying as a result. It relies on the slow mournful tunes of the guitar combined with vocal talents of George Jones to set the mood.

This CD boasts 13 songs, all with different songs and themes, so there is something for everyone.