Dave Evans

When a performer dedicates a recording to their "Lord and Savoir Jesus Christ," one shouldn't be surprised if one or two or a dozen of the album's songs are of a religious nature. Technically, one would call Hang a Light out for Me gospel, but Dave Evans' deep roots in traditional music lean heavily toward bluegrass. Call it bluegrass gospel, because Evans' emphasis is equally split between the heavenly nature of the project and the skillful musicianship of everyone involved. The guitar work of Don Rigsby helps to jump-start the title cut, while Evans' rustic vocals fill the tune with lots of mountain soul. Dobroist Randy Kohrs joins the band here and on "Who Really Cares," adding some tasteful licks and a heavy dose of blues. Both of these songs, along with "The Line in Between," are Evans' originals, and they rest comfortably between classics like Hank Williams' "House of Gold" and Bill Monroe's "Mansions for Me." Bluesy mandolin, banjo, and fiddle infuse "Give Mother My Crown" and "The Darkest Hour Is Just Before Dawn" with deep feeling, while the group's fine harmony add something special to "The Man in the Middle" and "Take Me in a Lifeboat." While Hang a Light out for Me will primarily appeal to those with a bent for that old-time religion, traditional bluegrass fans will find it equally appealing. ~ Ronnie D. Lankford, Jr., All Music Guide