As the lead singer of the Clinch Mountain Boys, Ralph Stanley II more than held his own with some notable musicians who held that position before him, including Larry Sparks, Keith Whitley, and Charlie Sizemore. Listen To My Hammer Ring, "II's" solo debut, contains a satisfying mixture of old Stanley classics like "Katie Daley" and "Highway of Regret" and crossover numbers like "Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain" and "Another Song, Another Drink." The highlight of the album, however, is the first ever recording of "Mary, Merry Christmas," the last known work of II's legendary uncle Carter. It is a very moving piece, performed passionately by II in memory of his uncle. An added bonus is the contributions made by Ralph Sr. and the Clinch Mountain Boys. Joe Issacs also makes a special appearance singing harmonies on "Strolling In The Moonlight" and former Clinch Mountain Boy John Rigsby returns briefly to add his mandolin and vocals on a few of the tracks.
As the lead singer of the Clinch Mountain Boys, Ralph Stanley II more than held his own with some notable musicians who held that position before him, including Larry Sparks, Keith Whitley, and Charlie Sizemore. Listen To My Hammer Ring, "II's" solo debut, contains a satisfying mixture of old Stanley classics like "Katie Daley" and "Highway of Regret" and crossover numbers like "Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain" and "Another Song, Another Drink." The highlight of the album, however, is the first ever recording of "Mary, Merry Christmas," the last known work of II's legendary uncle Carter. It is a very moving piece, performed passionately by II in memory of his uncle. An added bonus is the contributions made by Ralph Sr. and the Clinch Mountain Boys. Joe Issacs also makes a special appearance singing harmonies on "Strolling In The Moonlight" and former Clinch Mountain Boy John Rigsby returns briefly to add his mandolin and vocals on a few of the tracks.