Ricky Skaggs' first major-label album, Waitin' for the Sun to Shine, continues to yield hit singles, so CBS has delayed the release of his long-completed followup. Meanwhile, the enterprising independent label Rounder Records has leaped in to satisfy the demand for a new Ricky Skaggs record. Family and Friends, recorded a couple of years ago, showcases the bluegrass side of country music's newest crown prince. The material ranges from Bill Monroe and Carter Stanley to white gospel, and the musicians include guitarist Peter Rowan, bassist Joe Allen, Jerry Douglas on dobro, and, as the title suggests, Skaggs' family – his parents, Hobert and Dorothy; his wife, Sharon White; her sister, Cheryl Warren; and Sharon and Cheryl's father, Buck White.

The family singing is definitely the album's main attraction, especially Skaggs, White and Warren's a cappella rendition of "Talk about Sufferin'" and the rousing "Hallelujah I'm Ready." The down-home nature of Family and Friends is particularly poignant in the two performances by Skaggs' parents, who, though not professionals, are obviously lifelong musicians. My favorite moment on the record may be during "River of Memory" when they sing about the little log cabin that's "nestled among the sicky-more trees." Forget Barbara Mandrell and her ilk–when you're listening to Family and Friends, you're listening to country. (RS 378)

DON SHEWEY