Sierra Hull and band did a great job to get the evening started. The band is already performing at an impressive level, but Sierra is still developing her incredible talents and accumulating experience. I hesitate to compare her to another famous young female performer - since everyone already has - who went through a similar developmental process. If she continues on her current trajectory, she will end up right at the top of the business. Great picking from all her top-notch sidemen. The combined bill coincidentally hosted four of the world's top flatpick guitarists (one playing mandolin, which is another story in itself), and although Highway 111 guitarist and singer Clay Hess humbly described himself as "mediocre" in that company, he assuredly is NOT.
The current configuration of the Tony Rice Unit need not apologize to any of Tony's now legendary bands of the past. Tony's imagination was constantly stretching himself to the limits of his physical ability, which is still formidable. If the stage was a chessboard, Rickie Simpkins and Rob Ickes were like two powerful castles dominating the left and right flanks with instrumental pyrotechnics. Bryn Davies is a ferocious bass player whose skills continue to improve and provide an extremely soulful foundation. Wyatt Rice added his word-class rhythm guitar work as well as a number of well-crafted solos to the mix. Last but not least is the incredible Josh Williams, the reigning three-time IBMA winner for best guitar. Playing mandolin and singing in this Unit, he demonstrated some jaw-dropping mandolin talent and top-notch singing. Long-time Tony Rice fans remember Tony's incredible singing talent (he was one of the best bluegrass singers ever). Now unable to sing, Tony asked Josh Williams to perform several memorable vocal numbers. A fully worthy alternative.