Hull began playing mandolin at age eight, and quickly became noted on the national festival scene for her fluid, inventive picking. She garnered several mandolin and guitar championships in the process. Hull even toured with Krauss and Union Station at one time, and has also performed on the famed Grand Ole Opry stage.
Produced by Ron Block, Secrets does an exceptional job of showcasing Hull’s immense talents. Attempting to avoid a Union Station laden mixture, Block chose to spread these band members among the thirteen songs on the CD. Hull has even written, or co-written, three of the songs, including an outstanding knuckle-busting instrumental titled “Hullarious.†Hull displays her supple picking prowess on mandolin and guitar on this one, showing why she is held in such high esteem by many artists.
Secrets does not rely on its instrumental strengths alone. Hull allows her vocal talents to shine in the title track “Secrets.†Supported by Douglas on Dobro, along with Tyminski and Block on harmonies, Hull’s vocals paint a pure musical picture far beyond her years. The playful “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool†features Tony Rice on guitar, enhancing the vocal lead by Hull. “Pretend†displays the deeper bluesy talents of Hull.
Ending the CD is a sparsely arranged gospel song “Trust and Obey.†Supported only by Block on guitar, this poignant song illustrates how touching Hull’s vocals can be, hitting you strongly in the chest. This is perhaps her best vocal on the CD, displaying much more passion that allows her vocals to flourish.
Sierra Hull is poised to make a huge impact on the modern bluegrass scene. One can only wonder how she can continue to improve with experience. We should all enjoy this.
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