Deep in the heart of Leslie County Kentucky coal and timber are the bread and butter of the people. In rural Hyden, the birthplace of Bobby and Sonny Osborne, the town is so small they don't even have a Wal-Mart or Kmart. The dirt roads and creek fords that filled the countryside in the 1930's have been replaced by paved roads and bridges. From this humble speck on the map was born one of the greatest bluegrass acts ever assembled.
   Hyden is the first in Pinecastle Records planned anthology of the legendary pickers Bobby and Sonny Osborne. Hyden recalls the earliest days of the brothers with selections that reflect the mood and feel of the period. "Ruby" was taught to Bobby by the boys' father, Robert and was a song of firsts. It was the first song Bobby sang on the radio way back in 1948 as well as the first song recorded by the Osborne brothers in 1956, the first song they sang as guests on the Grand Ole Opry and the first song they sang after they became members of the Opry on July 31, 1966. Roy Acuff's signature song "The Great Speckled Bird" is included as is the Carter Family standard "Picture On The Wall," and Flatt & Scruggs' "I'll Just Pretend."
   Two spirituals are also included in this 13 cut set. The brothers arrangement of "Leaning On The Everlasting Arms" and "Savior Save Me From Myself" both reflect the reverent attitude that identifies the conservative nature of the rural folk of Hyden that still fill the churches on Sunday. For lovers of music as well as bluegrass lovers, Hyden offers a lesson in the roots of popular bluegrass music the way it was meant to be played - from the heart.

-Charlton Wiggins