In the eyes of mainstream country music, bluegrass is something of an outcast. Even in Nashville, the heart of the bluegrass scene, you won't hear much on the radio. But if you get tired of listening toTaylor SwiftandAlan Jacksonad nauseum, check out "Live at the Charleston Music Hall,"Ricky Skaggs' concert masterpiece with his band Kentucky Thunder.

Ricky Skaggs is more well-known for his mainstream country hits from the 1980s, but he bookends this relatively short period in his career with an impressive body of bluegrass work. "Live" is a perfect introduction to this underdog genre from a musician who knows how to make mountain music accessible and enjoyable to the casual listener.

The first thing you notice on this album is the incredible instrumental skill. Skaggs is a virtuoso mandolinist accompanied by Kentucky Thunder, the most acclaimed backing bands in a very technically demanding genre. The instrumental tunes, including "Amanda Jewell" and "Crossville," are enough to impress even the most skeptical listener.

But there's plenty for those who prefer "normal" songs to instrumentals. Most of the songs are conventional (but excellent) bluegrass tunes, including covers of Lester Flatt's "Why Do You Wander" and Carter Stanley's "On a Lonesome Night," but Skaggs branches out with the more familiar "Cat's in the Cradle" and a reworking of his No. 1 country hit (and Bill Monroe cover) "Uncle Pen."

"Live at the Charleston Music Hall" is the perfect introduction to country's underappreciated cousin. Accessible mainstream covers alternate with traditional bluegrass tunes that you might just find yourself humming along with. Swallow your pride and give the album a listen: You never know what you might find out about your musical tastes.