Description
Marty Stuart – Busy Bee Cafe – 180 Gram Light Blue Galaxy Vinyl Record
Record of the Month
VMP EXCLUSIVE PRESSING
First ever vinyl reissue of Stuart’s debut album
(AAA) Lacquers Cut From The Original Master Tapes By Ryan Smith, Sterling Sound
Pressed on exclusive 180g light blue galaxy vinyl
Listening Notes Booklet By Natalie Weiner
Busy Bee Cafe, the 1982 album from country and bluegrass wunderkind Marty Stuart, is the VMP Country Record of the Month for February 2023. The first-ever vinyl reissue of the album, our edition is pressed on 180g Light Blue Galaxy vinyl with AAA lacquers cut from the original master tapes by Ryan Smith at Sterling Sound and comes with Listening Notes written by Natalie Weiner.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Busy Bee Cafe is the third studio album by American country music artist Marty Stuart, released in 1982. This album is a notable entry in Stuart’s early career, reflecting his deep roots in traditional country, bluegrass, and rockabilly music. ‘Busy Bee Cafe’ is a blend of covers and originals that showcase Stuart’s exceptional musicianship and his reverence for classic country sounds, particularly the influence of bluegrass legend Lester Flatt, with whom Stuart had played as a teenager.
Marty Stuart began his career at a very young age, joining Lester Flatt’s band as a mandolin player when he was just 13 years old. This early exposure to the world of bluegrass and country music profoundly influenced Stuart’s musical style and career. By the time he recorded ‘Busy Bee Cafe,’ Stuart was already recognized as a prodigious talent with a deep understanding of traditional American music.
Busy Bee Cafe was recorded with an impressive lineup of country and bluegrass musicians, including some of Stuart’s mentors and peers. The album was named after a popular diner in the Nashville area, reflecting the down-home, authentic feel of the music. It blends instrumental virtuosity with heartfelt vocal performances, capturing the spirit of classic country music while also hinting at the more eclectic directions Stuart would explore in his later work.
The album features a mix of traditional tunes, covers of classic country songs, and original compositions, all performed with Stuart’s characteristic flair.
‘One More Ride’ – A cover of a Bob Nolan classic, this track opens the album with a fast-paced, bluegrass-driven sound. Stuart’s mandolin playing is front and center, showcasing his technical skill and deep love for traditional country music.
‘Blue Railroad Train’ – This track is a cover of an old bluegrass standard, originally by the Delmore Brothers. Stuart’s version is faithful to the original, with a strong vocal performance and tight instrumentation that honors the song’s roots.
‘Busy Bee Cafe’ – The title track is an instrumental piece that highlights Stuart’s mandolin prowess. It’s a lively, upbeat number that captures the energy and camaraderie of a bustling cafe, with each musician contributing to the joyful, communal feel of the track.
‘Boogie For Clarence’ – This is an instrumental tribute to Stuart’s mentor Clarence White, the pioneering guitarist who played with The Byrds and had a significant influence on Stuart’s style. The track is a rollicking, rockabilly-infused number that pays homage to White’s innovative guitar work.
‘Truck Drivin’ Blues’ – A cover of the classic by the late bluegrass musician Dorsey Dixon, this track features a laid-back groove and a nostalgic look at life on the road. Stuart’s vocals and mandolin are complemented by the solid backing of his band, making it a standout track on the album.
‘Long Train Gone’ – An original composition by Stuart, this song is a fast-paced, bluegrass tune that showcases both his songwriting and instrumental skills. The song’s driving rhythm and energetic mandolin work are a testament to Stuart’s mastery of the genre.
‘Get In Line Brother’ – A traditional gospel song, this track features tight harmonies and a jubilant feel, bringing a touch of spiritual energy to the album. Stuart’s rendition is faithful to the original, but with his own unique flair.
‘Waitin’ At The Gate’ – Another upbeat bluegrass track, this song is driven by Stuart’s mandolin and the lively interplay between the musicians. It’s a perfect example of the album’s blend of traditional influences and Stuart’s modern sensibilities.
Busy Bee Cafe is steeped in the traditions of country and bluegrass music, with themes that revolve around the joys and hardships of everyday life, the open road, and the enduring appeal of classic American music. The album’s sound is a mix of traditional country instrumentation, with a strong emphasis on the mandolin, guitar, and fiddle, reflecting Stuart’s deep roots in bluegrass.
The album also pays tribute to some of Stuart’s key influences, including Clarence White, Lester Flatt, and the Delmore Brothers. This reverence for the past is balanced with Stuart’s own modern sensibilities, making the album both a nod to tradition and a showcase for his emerging voice as an artist.
Busy Bee Cafe was well-received by fans of traditional country and bluegrass music, though it didn’t achieve significant commercial success at the time of its release. However, the album has since become a respected part of Marty Stuart’s discography, appreciated for its authenticity and its role in establishing Stuart as a serious musician with a deep love for the roots of country music.
The album is often seen as a precursor to Stuart’s later, more commercially successful work, where he would continue to blend traditional and modern influences, eventually becoming one of the most respected figures in contemporary country music.
Busy Bee Cafe remains a beloved album for fans of traditional country and bluegrass music, showcasing Marty Stuart’s exceptional musicianship and his commitment to preserving and revitalizing the classic sounds of American music. The album is an essential listen for those interested in the roots of country music and the development of Marty Stuart’s career as one of the genre’s most enduring and innovative artists.
Track Listing
One More Ride
Blue Railroad Train
I Don’t Love Nobody
Watson’s Blues
Busy Bee Cafe
Down The Road
Hey Porter
Boogie For Clarence
Get In Line Brother
Soldiers Joy
Long Train Gone
