With expert musical intensity, Pat Flynn sings (in a cover of The Band's "Shape I'm In") that he's got nine lives although he's spent seven. We doubt that but totally agree that his first solo album release, "reQuest," is long overdue. Flynn's made a name for himself with many earlier adventurous pursuits, such as his sojourn with New Grass Revival in the 1980s. His latest inquiring act in search of musical challenge takes us into well-arranged country rock territory. His four originals (Sundown, Lila, In the Middle of the Night, All on a Rising Day) are all very radio-friendly tracks that will earn them plenty of airplay. "In the Middle of the Night" was a hit for New Grass Revival, and the latter song was co-written with Peter Rowan. Flynn sings with emotive voice, and he even entertains us with interesting renditions of folk faves "If I Had a Hammer" and "Michael Row the Boat Ashore." I fully support these great songs being resuscitated by the likes of Pat and friends. "Michael ." is grounded with a mellow reggae beat.

Flynn provides some tasty acoustic guitar, mandolin and bouzouki on the project, although the real showcase of his exceptional talent doesn't really take the forefront until the last bluegrassy track, "Mother Lode." His instrumental collaborators include stellar musical luminaries Steve Bryant (bass), Rob Ickes (dobro), Bela Fleck (banjo), Stuart Duncan (fiddle, mandolin), Jim Hoke (accordion, harmonica), Kevin Lawson (keyboards), Russ Pahl (steel, electric guitar, banjo on one track), Dennis Wage (organ). The drumming and percussion are provided by Tom Harden or Kenny Malone. Six others, including John Cowan and Buddy Greene, sing vocal harmonies.

An experienced veteran and producer, Pat Flynn has an impressive resume.  The influential music of New Grass Revival continues to be reissued today on remastered CDs. A five-time winner of  Frets magazine's readers poll for "Best Acoustic Guitarist," Flynn is a member of their Gallery of the Greats. As a session guitarist, Pat's contributed to over 300 album projects, including 26 that have gone gold, platinum or won other big awards (like Randy Travis' "Rise and Shine," or Lee Ann Womack's "I Hope You Dance").

Released in May, 2004, "reQuest" is great documentation of a master musician's artistry. Let's hope we don't have to wait very long for a sequel. In the meantime, look for Pat on jamgrass, Americana and country stages with some of his first-rate picking pals. (Joe Ross)

PAT FLYNN - reQuest
Mea Culpa Productions, no number
www.patflynnmusic.com OR www.echomusic.com
Playing Time - 42:38