FOGGY MOUNTAIN SPECIAL: A TRIBUTE TO EARL SCRUGGS, Various Artists--In the planning stages since 2009, this tribute to Earl Scruggs may have been a long time being born but, coming in the wake of the banjo titan’s death this past March, it could only have been more timely had it seen the light of day when Earl was still with us. Be that as it may, the dozen cuts here by a true all-star collection of pickers from across generational lines attests to a number of enduring and endearing qualities about Earl Scruggs.

BOBBY OSBORNE & THE ROCKY TOP X-PRESS, New Bluegrass & Old Heartaches-- Either way you cut it—new bluegrass or old heartaches—this long player finds the legendary Bobby and his laudable band in fine form. An emotional roller coaster of an album, it’s well worth the ride.