BLUEGRASS NOW, May 1998:

RAY LEGERE AND ROGER WILLIAMS
River of No Return

Ray Legere and Roger Williams go together like peanut butter and jelly; they bring out the best in each other. River of No Return is a testament to the power of friendship in a musical setting. It is clearly evident on every track that these two fellows love to get together and play music. The amazing thing is, outside of a short European tour, these two have never been in the same band.

Both possess considerable talents as songwriters. Eight of the twelve tracks are originals (four penned by Legere, four by Williams), and all are quality pieces. The multi-talented Legere is equally adept at fiddle, mandolin, and guitar, and through the magic of overdubbing, he performs all three instruments on all the tracks. He uses every inch of the neck on all his instruments, effortlessly gliding up and down the fretboard. Williams has a "classic" country voice, somewhat reminiscent of Randy Travis, and his dobro style is progressive but not over the top.

Legere and Williams perform contemporary bluegrass, but include elements of blues, jazz, and traditional bluegrass as well. Legere's "Step, Stomp, and Stumble" is a supercharged fiddle tune, while his "This Lonesome Fiddler" is a rollicking blues number. Williams contributes songs with a touch of melancholy in the instrumental "Contemplation" and the beautiful "Snowy Afternoon." The duo also satisfies fans of uptempo bluegrass with "River of No Return" and the Louvin Brothers chestnut, "Can't Keep You in Love With Me."

The backing musicians play crucial, yet understated roles. Singers Darren Farrell and Jean Marc Doiron perform excellent, emotional lead and harmony vocals. Frank Doody plays some excellent backing banjo, stepping forward on "River of No Return." Bassist Brian Arsenault absolutely rocks "Can't Keep You in Love With Me" and "This Lonesome Fiddler."

River of No Return is an excellent example of studio musicianship. The song arrangements are impeccable, and one would never believe that this was not recorded live. This one might be a little tough to find, but well worth the effort. (TB)