“Bentonia Blues” is based on some Skip James minor key melodies with Dawson just amazing on National slide, accompanied by Nashville legend Charlie McCoy on harmonica, a major highlight.

“Different, fascinating, and very listenable.”

“A true jaw dropper throughout, this set is no one trick pony and will blow your ears open time and again every step of the way.”

“Steve Dawson is never reverential without purpose and has no interest in echoing ancient riffs to show off the depth of his musical knowledge. The references are simply points on the compass for a new map he is drawing with Lucky Hand.”

“There’s blinding dexterity, superb composition, melodic force and musical articulation that make ‘Lucky Hand’ something you should definitely add to your music collection.”

“You can get it that John Fahey, Leo Kottke and other so-called American Primitive guitarists explored the territory decades ago, but Dawson, ably assisted by classical arranger Jesse Zubot, moves the ideas gratifyingly forward.”

“Dawson’s influences reportedly range from Doc Watson and Chet Atkins to Ry Cooder and Van Dyke Parks, and the list of progenitors makes sense, given the richly textured songs on Lucky Hand, all of which are loaded with surprising twists and turns, and consistently engaging.”

“Dawson’s own music reflects a range of early influences, instrumental techniques and styles — folk, blues, Hawaiian-style, steel guitar, jazz angles — that’s quietly staggering if you haven’t already taken up the invitation.”

“The resulting music is innovative, gorgeous, and successful enough that Dawson and company will re-create its magic during the upcoming Vancouver International Jazz Festival, opening for Dobro wizard Jerry Douglas.”

“What comes out for me is music that is inspired by people like Mississippi John Hurt, Skip James, Chet Atkins, Tampa Red, and up through people like John Fahey and Leo Kottke.”