Audiophile Quality 180g 45RPM Vinyl 2LP Reissue Mastered by Chris Bellman at Bernie Grundman Mastering and Pressed at MPO!

Craft Recordings presents 2020 reissues of the three best-selling albums from Grammy Award-winning Americana trio, Nickel Creek: Nickel Creek (2000), This Side (2002), and Why Should the Fire Die? (2005). Each audiophile-quality reissue is housed in a double-disc, gatefold jacket. All albums were cut at 45RPM and have been pressed on 180-gram vinyl at MPO, featuring mastering from the original tapes or high-resolution sources by Chris Bellman at Bernie Grundman Mastering.

The official self-titled 2000 debut from the band that changed the face of bluegrass and roots music is a long-time audiophile classic awash in extraordinary sound, virtuosic musicianship, and stunning performances throughout. The production values are also exceptionally high, reflecting the intense musicality of producer/mentor Alison Krauss.

Mandolinist Chris Thile kicks things off with a display of virtuosity on "Ode to a Butterfly," negotiating the twists and turns of the melody with seemingly effortless abandon. All four musicians are incredibly sure-footed and comfortable in each other's company. Bassist Scott Thile shines in an often under-appreciated role, his round sound and perfect intonation provide the harmonic underpinning and subtle rhythmic cushion that lends buoyancy to the ensemble sound.

Highlights abound. Violinist Sara Watkins contributes a tender lead vocal on the ethereal "Out of the Woods," and the harmony vocals are nothing short of sublime. "Sweet Afton," a setting of the famous poem by Robert Burns, shows off the group's Celtic leanings. Chris Thile's high tenor vocal is truly heart stopping.

Features:
• Audiophile-quality 180g 45rpm 2LP reissue from Craft Recordings
• Mastering from the original tapes or high-resolution sources by Chris Bellman at Bernie Grundman Mastering
• Pressed at MPO
• Double-disc, gatefold jacket packaging