Jussi Syren and the Groundbreakers has been playing their hard driving style of bluegrass almost 30 years. Besides their native Finland they have been performing in six European countries and nine US States. Their albums have received highlight reviews in music media – such as Bluegrass Unlimited and Country Music People.
Groundbreakers’ style is a little different from other current day bluegrass groups. Their style was born in smoky honky tonks and crowded bar rooms where you have play hard and holler loud. Even today most of the venues they play are that kind.
The mandolin playing lead/tenor singer Jussi Syren’s ”close to the bridge picking” and roughhewn Ralph Stanley-type vocals have become his trademarks. He is also a prolific songwriter.
On the new album, already their 13th, Michael Cleveland, Grammy Award nominee bluegrass fiddle player, joins in as a special guest.
1. Across the Rolling Tide
2. Echoes from Another World
3. Strokin' Down (instrumental)
4. Sittin' in an All Night Cafe
5. Morning Has Broken
6. Southwest Storm (instrumental)
7. Foggy River
8. Playin' Hard to Get
9. Top of the World
10. One Step Closer
11. Norwegian Wood (instrumental)
12. Meat and Taters