Doc & Dawg (Acoustic Disc, 1997)

From the vaults of David Grisman's company comes another masterpiece, recorded at Grisman's home in the late '80s and early '90's. The material includes lots of old favorites, including "Frankie & Johnnie," "Soldier's Joy," "Bluegrass Stomp Blues," "Summertime" and "Sweet Georgia Brown."

Curly Sechler adds his tenor to "What is a Home Without Love?," and Stuart Duncan, Alan O'Bryant and James Kerwin join in for the finale, "Watson's Blues." But for the most part, it's just Watson on guitar and vocals and Grisman on mandolin (with Jack Lawrence on second guitar), which is more than satisfying. As always, each is a joy to listen to.

Both men have been fixtures on the acoustic music scene for so long that it's surprising that this is their first full album together. Though travelling different musical paths, they have been friends since the early '60's. The production isn't perfect here, but the musical quality more than makes up for it. It's a real treat to sit in on Doc & Dawg's pickin' party.