Re: Role of Octave/mandola/MCello in non classical music
I can't speak for fiddle or old time, but I like a mandola for solo play on tunes generally heard in a lower range ( Dylan, Kristoferson, etc) where a soprano instrument does not seem to me to work. My wife, who sometimes likes to sing along, finds the lower range of a mandola more suitable to her vocal range.
Does not replace a mandolin but instead an alternative to a mandolin in solo play on select tunes. When playing with others I always use a mandolin for its distinct voice in a jam where a dola can get lost amongst the guitars. Just my humble opinion.
Big Muddy EM8 solid body (Mike Dulak's final EM8 build)
Kentucky KM-950
Weber Gallatin A Mandola "D hole"
Rogue 100A (current campfire tool & emergency canoe paddle)
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