Alison Brown's groundbreaking debut album, Simple Pleasures, originally released in 1990, is back with remixed and remastered tracks, bonus demos, and insightful liner notes.
Alison Brown's groundbreaking debut album, Simple Pleasures, which hasn't been available on any format since the early 2000s, marked a pivotal moment for Earl Scruggs-style banjo playing upon its initial release in 1990. Produced by acoustic music legend David Grisman at Dawg Studio in Marin, CA, the album not only showcased Brown's exceptional banjo skills but also featured a stellar lineup including Alison Krauss, David Grisman himself, and other luminaries. Songs like "Mambo Banjo," "Leaving Cottondale," and "Weetabix" introduced Brown's distinctive compositions to the world, earning critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination for Best Bluegrass Album.
Fast forward to 2024, now Simple Pleasures is receiving a highly anticipated reissue across LP, CD, and digital platforms. Remixed and remastered with meticulous care by Matt Coles at Compass Sound Studio, Nashville, the reissue includes bonus tracks of previously unreleased demos, providing a deeper dive into the album's creative process. Liner notes from collaborators like Mike Marshall offer insights into Brown's impact on acoustic music, celebrating her as both a trailblazing composer and virtuoso instrumentalist.
Beyond her solo career, Alison Brown continues to shape the landscape of roots music as a Grammy-winning musician, producer, and co-founder of Compass Records Group. Recognized for her pioneering role among women in bluegrass, she remains actively involved in industry initiatives and serves on prestigious boards, further solidifying her legacy as a transformative figure in banjo music.