Billy Parker is a powerful mandolinist from Phoenix, AZ. Mandoclectic is Billy Parker’s imaginative and thoughtful collection of songs and tunes that demonstrate both his personal vision and his respect for different musical influences. Fundamentally, this recording is a joy to listen to.
There is an artist at work here. Billy is front and center on this recording. He is the focus– in the way a solo recording should be– and it’s surprising to me how often that idea gets lost in other individual’s recordings. Whether singing lead or coming up with original instrumentals, Billy is letting you know that this is his record. I love that.
Here is another great thing. I think every player on this recording is from Arizona, and they are all top-notch. Nick Coventry, Michael Rolland, Alvin Blaine, Peter McLaughlin and Matt Mitchell are just a few of the players that round out this project, and all contribute strong solos and great ensemble work. Whether swinging on a Dawg-inspired original like “Silly Jilly,” giving a workout to “The Fidget Hornpipe” or singing the bucolic “Fishin’ in Montana,” Billy Parker is sharing with you his musical self. His musical compatriots are completely engaged in this conversation, and it is satisfying to hear this project so fully realized. Mandoclectic is a beautiful project from an Arizona musician deserving of much wider recognition.
Mandobilly Records
Billy Parker
