Michelle Lee On Air 
Released on October 24, 2025, “Way Back When” marks Larry Sparks‘ 20th album with Rebel Records and serves as a masterclass in traditional bluegrass. At the young age of 78 years old, the “soulful voice of bluegrass” proves that his signature bluesy delivery and masterful guitar work have only deepened with time. Unlike his 2023 solo effort “It’s Just Me”, this project sees Sparks reuniting with the full band—The Lonesome Ramblers—including his son Larry D. Sparks on bass, Mike Feagan on fiddle, and Tyler Mullins on banjo.
Let’s dive into the album and give a brief overview of each song:
1. Way Back When
The title track (written by Gary Ferguson, Brent Moyer, and Robert Tobin) sets the tone for the entire project. It is a warm, mid-tempo nostalgic piece that yearns for a simpler era. Sparks’ iconic 1954 Martin D-28 provides a rich, resonant foundation here.
2. Tennessee Border
A spirited cover of the Hank Williams and Roy Acuff classic. Sparks brings a playful, driving energy to this version, and the tight fiddle work from Mike Feagan honors the song’s country-bluegrass crossover roots perfectly.
3. A Daddy’s Lullaby
This Arthur Smith cover is the emotional heart of the album. Sparks delivers a tender, intimate performance that showcases his ability to handle “soft” bluegrass with as much gravitas as his “hard-driving” numbers.
4. Since I Met You Baby
In a surprising but effective genre blend, Sparks takes on the Ivory Joe Hunter R&B classic. With guest, Ron Stewart, on fiddle and banjo, the track gains a soulful, bluesy “grass” edge that highlights Larry’s unique ability to “Sparks-ify” any song he touches.
5. On the Battlefield for My Lord
The first of two gospel tracks. It’s a joyful, up-tempo marching song. The vocal harmonies are crisp, and the track provides a spiritual “lift” that serves as a staple in any Larry Sparks collection.
6. The Fields of Gettysburg
Arguably the standout track. Written by Gary Ferguson and Niall Toner, it’s a sobering, cinematic look at the human cost of the Civil War. Sparks’ delivery is haunting and respectful; you can almost feel the weight of history in his voice.
7. Sleepin’ Lula
A ripping instrumental that lets the band shine. It puts the spotlight on the interplay between the mandolin, banjo, and Larry’s own flatpicking. It’s a high-energy reminder that even at 78, Sparks can still “burn it down” when he wants to.
8. Ages and Ages Ago
A Gene Autry cover that feels right at home in the Sparks repertoire. It leans into the “Acoustic Country” side of his style, featuring smooth fiddle lines and a steady, comforting rhythm.
9. Come Back Darling
Sparks revisits this Lester Flatt classic with renewed vigor. The band is “in the pocket” here, providing a driving beat that is impossible not to tap your foot to. It’s pure, untainted traditional bluegrass.
10. How Can You Refuse Him Now
The album closes with a reverent Hank Williams gospel number. Performed in a slower time, it’s an intentionally personal and moving conclusion that leaves the listener in a state of quiet reflection.
Sparks has definitely been a foundation of his music in the decades throughout his career. It can be easily said that his music is “lonesome” and mountain-rooted like the Stanley Brothers. However, it is also obvious that Sparks adds a bluesy, soulful lead guitar style that is more modern than the traditional Stanley banjo-drive. While you can compare him to legends within the Bluegrass Genre, Sparks is a primary influencer to young “jam-grass” stars on how to make a guitar talk.
“Way Back When” is a definitive late-career triumph. It manages to feel both like a homecoming and a fresh statement of purpose. For long-time fans, it’s everything you love about Sparks; for newcomers, it’s a perfect entry point into the “Sparks style” of bluegrass. “Way Back When” is an essential listen for anyone who values the “soul” in bluegrass. It doesn’t chase trends; it simply perfects the template Sparks created over fifty years ago.
Make sure to find and listen to the new album, “Way Back When”, by Larry Sparks wherever you stream music. You can also buy your own copy on his website www.larrysparksmusic.com along with other merchandise.