Of all the side projects that eclectic rocker Pete Krebs has lent his talents to, Golden Delicious is the one that would probably surprise most fans only familiar with his other work. Comprised of a lineup including, at various times, Krebs on guitar, Kevin Richey on banjo, Paul Bassett on washboard, Marilee Hord on fiddle, Jesse Spero on drums, and David Reisch of Holy Modal Rounder fame on bass, Golden Delicious craft old-time country music with a punk rock energy and a slightly irreverent attitude. Though not a traditional bluegrass band by any means, with drums, electric guitar, and the absence of a mandolin making this distinction, the original spirit of the music is largely preserved, though often with slightly tongue-in-cheek undertones. 1997's Old School was a potent jolt of newly arranged traditionals and fiery originals that added up to a good amount of toe-tapping fun. 1998 saw the release of Cavity Search, a split nine-song collection of five Golden Delicious and four solo Krebs tracks, two of which would end up on his excellent Sweet Ona Rose. A live album followed in 1999, with Live at the Laurelthirst providing more than adequate evidence to their power as a live band, as well as many more reasons to mourn the end of their collaboration. ~ Matt Fink