Re: Sierra Hull IBMA
Reminds me of a fellow player who said "As soon as you enter a instrument contest, you've lost."
Congrats to Sierra, a masterful mandolin player. I would imagine that much like the Oscars and other awards there is a great deal of politics, promotion and campaigning. I would imagine (like any smart business person would do) that the release of her new album this year included a lot more publicity and PR than her previous efforts.
She knows she is not a little kid anymore who gained notariety as the "cute little girl" playing onstage with the big boys and understands it really isn't just about simply being a great player or composer. There are so many other things that go into being a successful pro. Hence "Weighted Mind"?
I think while she has always been inspired and influenced by the bluegrass greats both musically and business wise, she has seen enough of the constant touring and festival life to realize that's about all there is with that. She has seen Chris Thile start as she did and forge a new path out of bluegrass while still being true to it's roots. Could she be following his path albeit a few years behind? Let's face it, her new project is very reminiscent of Chris and Edgar Meyer's Bass and Mando album and tour. Even the songs are similar to Thile's later albums. Much more intricate, "grown up", dark and thought provoking than anything she's done before.
I for one am a big fan and while I applaud her win and current efforts I think it won't be long before she's charting new territory rather than swimming in someone else's wake.
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