Chimney Swifts

Brad Kolodner's solo debut album, Chimney Swifts, is a splendid introduction to contemporary clawhammer banjo music. Kolodner's playing and choice of material represent an imaginative approach to the instrument, which simultaneously exalts the banjo's old-timey roots while placing its sonic qualities in a context that younger ears may find appealing. A founding member of the Baltimore-based Irish/old-time/bluegrass fusion group Charm City Junction, Kolodner is well-known for duet performances and recordings with his father, Ken, and his radio broadcasting, which includes multiple weekly shows showcasing progressive bluegrass, Americana and old-time music.

Chimney Swifts is an all-instrumental mix of original and traditional material featuring Kolodner with a group of collaborators including his father (hammered dulcimer), Alex Lacquement (upright bass), Lucas Chohany (guitar), Patrick McAvinue (mandolin), Sean McComiskey (accordion) and Rachel Eddy (guitar) in various configurations. Among the album's 15 tracks, standout performances include ‘Catalpa Hop’, a twangy, up-tempo bluegrass romp that swings like mad, and the title-track, which evokes the swirling balletic motion of the birds for which the song and album are named.