For more than two decades, Randall Hylton had the distinction of being heralded as the most prolific songwriter in bluegrass. Nearly every top band in the business – Ralph Stanley, Doyle Lawson, the Country Gentlemen, the Lewis Family, the Bluegrass Cardinals and the Lost & Found to name a few – has made use of Randall’s material. He had a rare ability to write in a variety of styles that fit the most traditional to the most contemporary bands.

In addition to Randall Hylton the songwriter, there was an equally appealing – and entertaining – talent that remained a secret to many bluegrass aficionados: Randall Hylton the performer. He was one of the few musicians in bluegrass to successfully front a solo act. His concert and festival appearances were a delightful mix of Hylton originals – that ranged from tender ballads to hilarious comic ditties – choice bluegrass classics, and romping Merle Travis-style guitar instrumentals.

Randall performed best before a live audience, and Pickin’ In The Parlor is a fine sampling of Randall Hylton in action. The CD was recorded live at the Bluegrass Parlor in Tampa, Florida. For the occasion, he unveiled several new originals including “Miss Virginia Mayfield and the B. C.” (a humorous account of a spinster lady’s first encounter with a bluegrass festival), “The Hair Song” (a comedic take-off on the names of hair salons) and “The Legend of Bigfoot” (a light-hearted spoof on Randall’s fictional encounter with a big hairy beast). He also offered excellent renditions of two of his best-known compositions: “The Likes of You” and “Gonna Be Movin’.” Rounding out the set are a variety of tunes which range from the Carter Family’s “Wabash Cannonball” and Cowboy Copas’ “Alabam’” to Bob Dylan’s “Don’t Think Twice.” Especially effective are the two instrumentals “Dueling Banjos” and “Black Mountain Rag.” Along with some great music, Randall gently nudged the proceedings along with appropriate and witty showmanship. Pickin’ In The Parlor is a welcomed treat by a seasoned pro that will bear repeated listenings.