Lonely Runs Both Ways: Alison Krauss and Union Station: One of the Best CDs in My Collection

Even though the album came out last year, Lonely Runs Both Ways from Alison Krauss and Union Station is still one of my favorite CDs. I never get tired of listening to real musicians do their thing, and Alison Krauss and all of the members of Union Station are the epitome of true musicianship. This is definitely one of the best CDs that I own.

Alison Krauss and Union Station continue to provide proof of their excellent musicianship. Evidence: their latest offering, Lonely Runs Both Ways. It showcases the superior musical talents of group members, and reminds us of why Alison Krauss has more Grammys than any other woman (she has 20), including those won in May of this year for the album in question. Listen to Lonely Runs Both Ways, and you will understand why Alison Krauss and Union Station continually enjoy accolades.

“Unionhouse Branch” features Jerry Douglas on the dobro and Ron Block on the banjo. The two men, regarded as among the best on their instruments, play the upbeat tune with abandon. Krauss adds her fiddle, Dan Tyminksi plays guitar and Barry Bales contributes the bass. The music blends effortlessly, creating enjoyment for the listener. And it feels obvious that there is great enjoyment from the musicians as well. It is a lively tune that will have you whistling it for the rest of the day.

On “Gravity,” Krauss croons sweetly about life on the road. “And the people who love me still ask me: When are you coming back to town? And I answer, quite frankly, when they stop building roads, and there ain’t no more highways to be found.” The simple melody and wistful lyrics touch a chord that resonates with those who wander emotionally or spiritually, as well as those who are far from home. I play it whenever I am on a long road trip. It reminds me of home and, in some ways, also brings back the nostalgia of my younger days, when I wandered about before settling down with my husband and starting a family.

Lonely Runs Both Ways gives has already been acclaimed, and it stands as proof regarding the true beauty that comes with good music. This is unlikely to be the last offering from Alison Krauss and Union Station, and I can’t wait for the next recordings. I will even go into the store and buy the CD, rather than simply downloading some of the tunes off the Internet.