Secrets (Rounder, 2008)

Though but a teenager, Sierra Hull has already joined the ranks of accomplished young mandolin virtuosos. She picks it fast, but clean and with tone, taste, and timing typical of a far more experienced player. Her lightening licks on "Smashville" and "Hullarious" are surely Chris Thile influenced.

Hull has a voice of adolescence and innocence, but she is quite professional. Her vocals recall Alison Krause a few years back. Producer Ron Block of Union Station and Hull chose a variety of numbers, and included break-neck mandolin pyrotechnics, modern melodic bluegrass tunes, songs reminiscent of classic country ("Everybody's Somebody's Fool") and a fine spare gospel arrangement on "Trust and Obey." The young mandolinist is endorsed by Adam Steffey, who predicts a bright future. Steffey knows a thing or two about mandolins. Sierra Hull is a player.