Trio

iTunes Review

After years of delays, Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris finally joined forces in 1986 to record an album’s worth of songs. Trio was released the following year to substantial critical acclaim and commercial success, and this lovingly-rendered project is still a delight to hear. The natural affinity these three singers have for blending voices is as evident as their shared affection for old-fashioned country. Parton takes the lead for the spirited “Wildflowers,” Ronstadt lends quiet drama to “I’ve Had Enough” and Harris touches a chord of deep sorrow on “My Dear Companion.” “To Know Him Is To Love Him” recasts an old Phil Spector tune as a bluegrass ballad, while “Telling Me Lies” finds the threesome working nicely in a more contemporary country vein. From the shimmering heartache of “Making Plans” to the exalted longing of “Farther Along,” the tracks here are vibrant with feeling. A mixture of L.A. and Nashville players — including such notables as David Lindley, Albert Lee and Mark O’Connor — add to the overall excellence. Most of all, Trio is Dolly, Linda and Emmylou finding common ground and making some of the most satisfying music of their careers.