Fred Carpenter’s "One More Thing" is a Fiddler’s masterpiece turned vocal triumph
For decades, Fred Carpenter has been the fiddler’s fiddler—a master musician whose name is synonymous with dazzling string work and impeccable artistry. But with One More Thing, his long-awaited album, Carpenter proves he’s more than just a virtuoso—he’s a storyteller. This 12-track collection, spanning 37 minutes, is a triumph of Americana, seamlessly blending roots, folk, and bluegrass traditions with a fresh, heartfelt approach.
From the first note, One More Thing feels like an intimate gathering of legends, with Carpenter surrounded by an extraordinary acoustic quartet and a dream team of harmony vocalists, including Vince Gill, Alison Krauss, Ricky Skaggs, and Kathy Mattea. Their contributions add warmth and texture, elevating the record beyond a simple display of musicianship into something truly soulful and deeply human.
While Carpenter’s instrumental prowess is expectedly jaw-dropping—his three original instrumentals showcase his signature fiddle magic—it’s the vocal tracks that surprise and delight the most. His interpretations of classics like Sultans of Swing and Love Has No Pride are rich with emotion, breathing new life into well-loved melodies while staying true to their roots. There’s a quiet confidence in his voice, a lived-in authenticity that makes every lyric resonate.
But make no mistake: the real star here is the instrumentation. The arrangements are exquisite, weaving together lush strings, crisp acoustic picking, and tight yet organic rhythms. Each song is a showcase of collaboration at its finest, where every musician plays with both precision and passion.
One More Thing isn’t just a solo debut; it’s a celebration of everything Carpenter has spent a lifetime perfecting. It’s a record for lovers of Americana, for those who appreciate masterful musicianship, and for anyone who believes that great music isn’t just played—it’s felt. And if this is Carpenter’s one more thing, here’s hoping there’s plenty more to come.
To call this exceptional would somehow still be an understatement as the entirety of the record flows flawlessly. It brings you back to a moment in time even though it was just released. Go ahead and experience everything it has to offer and follow along for more by clicking those links below.
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