Acclaimed roots music artisan, Daniel Sherrill, famed for his meticulous fretwork and dexterous playing, returns with an enchanting new album, "Back To P.A." His virtuosity has previously been celebrated by Americana Highways for “virtuoso fretwork” and highlighted in notable platforms like The Bluegrass Situation and Folk Radio UK. Daniel’s 2022 album, “From A Heritage Tree”, not only found its place among Songlines UK Magazine’s 10 Best Albums In The World but also carved out a niche in numerous official Spotify playlists.
Upon learning of Sherrill’s transition from his longstanding home in Oregon back to Pennsylvania, expectations of a new album were minimal. However, the consummate songwriter cleverly utilized the move to not only inspire a fresh perspective on old tunes but also to convey exhilarating interpretations of traditional tracks, along with spirited originals.
The album takes listeners on a journey, interweaving motifs of travel, resettlement, and introspection. According to Joe Newberry, “I’m honored to have your first record, you’ve got a really, really good right hand.” Daniel’s songs are inspired by his interaction with local roots musicians and an intrinsic ecological motive to preserve natural beauty, comparable to how time safeguards a melody. This sentiment beautifully accompanies his latest video projects, where the gentle roll of banjo tunes harmonizes with serene scenes of Appalachian nature.
What sets Sherrill’s work apart is its unique place in the American roots music canon. His compositions are performed on a banjo with a remarkable story. Carved from a 275-year-old claro-walnut tree, which stood witness to the first renditions of some traditional American tunes, the wood was repurposed by a gifted luthier who crafted the banjo especially for Daniel after its natural fall.
Daniel skillfully elicits the essence of the instrument, blending chords and melodies that recall the flair of country guitar masters. Expanding upon conventional song structures with a single banjo, without after-effects or overdubs, his intricate methods and humble disposition recall the endeavors of traditional folklorists—transcribing, reviving, and resharing music. The folk process is not only honored but actively lived through his work.
Daniel Sherrill adds a personal note:
“Relocating my family from the Pacific Northwest to our roots in the Appalachian foothills of Pennsylvania has deepened my curiosity about the history of the Brandywine Valley and the square/contra dance culture that originated from the milltowns in the area. My aspiration is to contribute to the banjo’s narrative, respecting its roots while gently pushing its boundaries into the future. I aim for purity and precision in my playing, conjuring images of melodies sung by birds, accompanied by the gentle rustle of trees and the soft murmur of creeks. It is my hope that the videos released with these tunes inspire an appreciation for unnoticed beauty and invoke a spirit of mindful exploration.”
Sherrill's adeptness goes beyond mere bluegrass proficiency. His song research thoughtfully honours and continues the cultural lineage that has maintained these traditional tunes, sharing them anew in his unparalleled style.
Release Information:
- Album Title: Back To P.A.
- Artist: Daniel Sherrill
- Release Date: November 10th, 2023
- Label: American Standard Time Records
