The Essential Bluegrass Album features 24 of the finest songs Mac Wiseman and the Osborne Brothers recorded together in the '60s and '70s. Instead of adhering to the rigid traditionalism of Bill Monroe, the Osbornes and Wiseman open the music up, bringing in a drummer and elements of Western swing, Tex-Mex and traditional country. It's an excellent collection, epitomizing the best of progressive bluegrass in the '60s and '70s. ~ Thom Owens, All Music Guide