"When Mandolins Weep" is an original composition for an acoustic ensemble by Phil Lawrence. It features guest mandolinist David Grisman (The Grateful Dead, Grisman-Garcia, Grateful Dawg, Old & in the Way, The David Grisman Quintet) and the legendary violinist David LaFlamme (It's A Beautiful Day, "White Bird") on viola, with Ned Boynton on mandola, Ned Ripple on guitar, Jeff Martin on acoustic bass, and Phil Lawrence on mandolin.
The song begins with a slow, haunting melodic line which is enriched by the harmonies created by the twin mandolins and the mandola. David LaFlamme's viola reinforces the melody with a smooth legato that balances the tremolo of the principle instruments. The song climaxes with an unexpected harmonic twist that transitions back to the main theme. Phil Lawrence and David Grisman improvise over the second chorus, before the song concludes with a emotional finale.
The music was recorded at Studio E in Sebastopol, California, using the finest, high quality microphones and recording equipment. Every instrument can be heard in perfect balance and with perfect clarity. Phil Lawrence plays a 1912 Gibson F2 mandolin and its rich tones are complemented by the virtuoso performance of the other musicians on their equally unique instruments.
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