Since 1993, New York City has been home to the band known as James Reams and the Barnstormers. Front man Reams is a Kentucky native who fondly recalls the musical influences of his youth. He’s had several well-received solo CDs and one ensemble disc with Tom Paley and Bill Christopherson (collectively known and The Mysterious Redbirds: CCCD-0188).

This is the first recording to highlight James’ band sound. In addition to Reams on guitar and lead vocals, the current (and long-time) lineup of the group includes Mark Farrell (mandolin, fiddle, harmony vocals), Carl Hayano (stand-up bass and harmony vocals), and Mickey Maguire (banjo). Besides bluegrass festivals from Maine to Indiana, they play a good deal in and around New York City. “There are not currently a lot of bluegrass venues in New York City,” Reams grants in a bit of an understatement, “but there are a lot of bluegrass fans there, and there’s a great appreciation for folk music, so the band has been able to develop a loyal fan following. And the great Northeast region does have plenty of bluegrass festivals that we can play.”

“Barnstormin’” contains a generous 15 tracks plus an attractive 12-page booklet with notes by columnist John Wright, lyrics to many of the songs, and appropriate photos. James and Tina Aridas composed a number of the songs that appear on the disc – they speak fondly of the life in Kentucky that nurtured him. James also organizes an annual old-time and bluegrass festival, called the Park Slope Old-time/Bluegrass Jamboree, held each September in Brooklyn. It features workshops, jamming, and concerts. “There’s nothing in life that gives me more pleasure than being part of this music,” says this singer, songwriter, guitar-player, and impresario, who is daily earning himself the proud title of “Father of Brooklyn Bluegrass.”