What makes Breakdown by Old and in the Way notable?

Breakdown revitalized interest in bluegrass music during a time when the genre was experiencing a resurgence, influenced by newgrass artists. The album received critical acclaim, charting on Billboard's Bluegrass Albums chart, and contributed to the legacy of Old and in the Way as a seminal group within the genre. Released in 1997, Breakdown is Old and in the Way's first album in over two decades since their original formation in the early '70s. This reunion project brought together legendary musicians like Jerry Garcia and David Grisman, marking a pivotal return to the bluegrass scene after years of individual pursuits. The album showcases their enduring musical chemistry and deep-rooted influences.

How many songs are on Breakdown?

Breakdown has 19 tracks, running approximately 69 minutes.

Breakdown

Old and in the Way · 1997

69 min · 19 tracks · bluegrass music

A vibrant tapestry of bluegrass instrumentation weaves through heartfelt storytelling, capturing the spirit of Americana music.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Panama Red — This track captures the playful spirit of classic bluegrass with its lively tempo and storytelling about a charismatic character, showcasing the band's tight harmonies.
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Wild Horses — A poignant interpretation of the classic song, it highlights the group's ability to blend emotional depth with intricate musical arrangements, standing out as a reflective moment on the album.
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Jerry's Breakdown — This instrumental showcases Jerry Garcia's virtuosic guitar skills and serves as a tribute to traditional bluegrass breakdowns, encapsulating the band's improvisational spirit.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Introduction - Pete Rowan 1:35
2 Home Is Where the Heart Is 1:58
3 Down Where the River Bends 4:35
4 On and On 3:25
5 The Hobo Song 4:57
6 Old & In the Way Breakdown 3:47
7 'Til the End of the World Rolls Round 2:14
8 Panama Red 2:41
9 You'll Find Her Name Written There 3:25
10 Kissimee Kid 3:09
11 Goin' to the Races 2:34
12 Midnight Moonlight 5:16
13 Working on a Building 2:35
14 Muleskinner Blues 2:57
15 Pig in a Pen 2:50
16 Drifting Too Far From the Shore 4:50
17 Jerry's Breakdown 4:28
18 Wild Horses 4:38
19 Blue Mule / Catfish John 7:50

What to play next

Listen next

Old and in the Gray

2002

Go back to

That High Lonesome Sound

1996

Full Old and in the Way discography Artists like Old and in the Way

bluegrass music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata