This collection gathers the Stanley Brothers’ earliest recordings: 78s they cut for the Rich-R-Tone label between 1947 and 1952. Included are traditional gospel songs, breakneck-paced bluegrass (“Molly and Tenbrooks”), and songs of their own that would later become staples (“Little Maggie”). There’s some variation in the sound quality, but it isn’t bad overall: a light hiss and some mild distortion of the high levels is as bad as it gets. Historic and wonderful, this Stanley Brothers release is a must-have for fans. – Joslyn Layne