Cybergrass
Volume Five to Hold CD Release Party Saturday
Nashville, TN -- Volume Five will hold a CD release party on March 9th at 6 p.m. EST at Everett's Music Barn in Suwannee, GA, to celebrate the release of their third album, Run, with Mountain Fever Records. Tickets are $15. The album hit shelves on February 26, and Its first single, "Rich Man's Daughter", was released in October and has reached number one on Bluegrass Today's Weekly Top 20 Chart.
"We're very grateful for the opportunity to play at the Barn and can't wait for our fans to hear our new music live," said lead vocalist Glen Harrell.
Volume Five came on to the music scene in 2008 and is characterized by soulful singing, dead-on harmonies and precise picking. The band is made up of seasoned performers Glen Harrell (fiddle and vocals), Patton Wages (banjo and vocals), Chris Williamson (bass and vocals), Jeff Partin (dobro, guitar & vocals) and Harry Clark (mandolin). Volume Five is currently in the studio working on a new gospel album. For more information on Volume Five, visit www.volumefivebg.com.
Songs like “Fox on the Run,” “Paradise,” and “Hickory Holler’s Tramp” were bluegrass festival favorites long ago. “Then it seems like no one would do them because they thought of it as being corny because everyone was singing them many years ago,” Harrell says. “Our opinion, and we hope the bluegrass folks agree, is if they are good songs they should be heard. We love to do songs that tell stories and that people can relate to. After all, that is what bluegrass music was founded on.” We just wanted to give them a fresh sound so that folks would say, ‘I forgot how great a song that is.’”
The title cut from Run was a song that was originally recorded for mandolin player Jesse Daniel’s solo CD. “He had it recorded but it had a much different tempo and feel to it. When we were in the studio tracking, I told Jesse I really liked that song but I was just hearing something different. So we started arranging the song to the way that I heard it. When we got it tracked, I remember Jesse saying I never even dreamed it would sound like this compared to the way it was cut on my CD. Jesse is a great songwriter and he really knows how to tell a story through a song. This is one of those songs that the crowd really gets into when we perform it live on stage.”
Other songs on the album include a new version of Charlie Louvin’s “See the Big Man Cry,” a song the band felt compelled to pay honor to by maintaining the original integrity of Louvin’s recording. "Rich Man's Daughter,” written by former Volume Five band member Colby Laney, and the project's first single, is a perfect example of what listeners have to look forward to. Glen Harrell's voice soars perfectly with the minor-sounding melody in a way that just proves this band is a reckoning force.
Tags: Volume FiveRunMountain Fever RecordsCD ReleaseCD Release PartyEventMonroeville New Single "So Far" Available for Download
2012 International Bluegrass Music Association’s Momentum Band of the Year, Monroeville's newest single, "So Far" is now available for download. Featured this last week at the New Music Showcase during the Country Radio Seminar, the all new original single, penned by Monroeville's own Eli Johnston, is a classic tale of unrequited love. Cleverly written with a fun beat, a catchy hook line, and accented with tight harmony and great musicianship, "So Far" will be anything but far from your mind.
Embracing a crossover sound between progressive bluegrass and acoustic country, Monroeville, has caught the attention of music lovers on both sides of the track. Each member is multi-instrumental, and individual members have been nominated for and or won awards from Dove, CCMA, IBMA, and or the GRAMMYS®.
At the band’s core is a belief that good music knows no boundaries. While paying homage to their roots of bluegrass and country music, Monroeville embraces that history and creates their own sound with original songwriting and arrangements that have been described as “a seamless flow through a range of musical styles and sounds, from bluegrass to country and pop”.
With original writing and musical arrangements, Monroeville seemlessly flows through a range of musical styles and sounds from bluegrass to country to pop. From performing school programs for over 12,000 students to help perserve musical heritage, to being featured at NASCAR, and main stages at Grey Fox, ROMP and Rocky grass, Monroeville is on their way to carving out a music all their own.
Tags: MonroevilleSo FarCD ReleaseOpry Country Classics Hosted By Larry Gatlin Returns to Ryman Auditorium
Nashville, TN -- The unforgettable songs that helped transform Nashville into Music City are set to be showcased on stage at the historic Ryman Auditorium during the fifth year of Opry Country Classics Thursdays March 28 – May 23. Grammy®-winner Larry Gatlin returns as show host for the first show of the season, welcoming multi-Grammy®-nominated Nashville favorites The Time Jumpers as Spotlight Artists. Gatlin will be welcoming artists who'll perform their own country hits as well as timeless favorites.
Gatlin is set to return as host for all subsequent shows except for the April 11 performance, which will be hosted by 650 AM WSM’s Bill Cody. Among the Spotlight Artists set to headline Opry Country Classics shows later in the season are Marty Stuart, (April 4); Pam Tillis, (April 11); Mel Tillis, (April 25): Terri Clark, (May 2); Lorrie Morgan, (May 9); and Oak Ridge Boys (May 23).
The Grand Ole Opry is the show that made country music famous. Each week, the Opry features a dynamic line-up of new stars, superstars, and legends of country music. The show is a must-see for anyone visiting Nashville or living in Music City. Artists will be added below as they are confirmed.
CLICK HERE for tickets and a schedule of those who will be performing.
Tags: Opry Country ClassicsGrand Ole OpryEventSteelDrivers to Kick Off Bluegrass Undergrounds PBS Season
On the road to celebrate the release of their third cd, Hammer Down, on Rounder Records, the new cd epitomizes The SteelDrivers' brand of bluegrass - intense, dark, poetic, and inescapably human. The new collection is a refreshing reminder of the timeless power of string band music. Hammer Down entered Billboard's Bluegrass chart at Number #1.
The SteelDrivers are banjo player Richard Bailey, bass/vocalist Mike Fleming, guitar/vocalist Gary Nichols, fiddler/vocalist Tammy Rogers and mandolinist Brent Truitt. Produced by Luke Wooton, Hammer Down is a collection of 10 new tunes from original members Chris Stapleton and Mike Henderson, as well as Rogers and Nichols. The set also includes the songs 'I'll Be There' and 'Cry No Mississippi' that Nichols co-wrote with John Paul White - one-half of the band The Civil Wars.
The SteelDrivers - "I'll Be There"
The English pop star Adele was so smitten with the band that she began performing their song, 'If It Hadn't Been For Love,' in her live performances. The SteelDrivers are on the road for much of 2013.
www.SteelDrivers.net, www.BluegrassUnderground.com
Tags: The SteelDriversBluegrass UndergroundConcertEventPBSMarty Raybon Celebrates 40th Year with "The Back Forty"
Nashville, TN -- Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce the upcoming bluegrass album, The Back Forty by Marty Raybon & Full Circle releasing Tuesday, March 26. This highly anticipated new album is now available for pre-order at Amazon and Rural Rhythm Records and will also be available at iTunes, GooglePay and many more fine retail outlets.
The Back Forty takes us back to Marty’s Bluegrass music roots with his signature vocals and tight harmonies provided by his band Full Circle: Tim Raybon, Chris Wade, Zach Rambo, with special guests Tim Crouch, Daniel Grindstaff, John Bradley, Aaron Ramsey, Scott Napier and Tim Laughlin. The exciting new project also helps celebrate Marty's 40 Years of Entertaining fans worldwide.
The album contains five new songs co-written by Marty including the new barn burner single “That Janie Baker” by Marty Raybon and John Fountain which has received rave reviews. Terry Herd of Bluegrass Today and Bluegrass Radio Network says, "That Janie Baker" is one of those songs you find yourself singing along with, even before you know the words.” The single is now out to radio and also available at AirPlayDirect.com.
Marty just filmed an upcoming album promo video, which will be available soon, where he discusses each track that appears on The Back Forty and talks about this year’s upcoming 40th Year Celebration. The album includes the following tracks:
- "That Janie Baker" – Marty Raybon, John Fountain
- "She’s Just An Old Love Turned Memory" – John Schweers
- "The Late Night Cry Of The Whippoorwill" – Randall Hylton, Paul Craft, Brenda Harrington, Kermit Teague
- "Slowly (I’m Falling)" – Webb Pierce, Tommy Hill
- "Look For Me (For I Will Be There Too)" – Charles (Rusty) Goodman
- "The Big Burnsville Jail" – Marty Raybon, Thom Case, and Michael Bonagura
- "A Little More Sawdust On The Floor" – Marty Raybon and John Fountain
- "Only You, Only You" – Marty Raybon, John Fountain
- "Hurt Me All The Time" – Raymond Maynard, Nelson Terry Skinner,and Lee Larry Wallace
- "Mountain Love" – Marty Raybon, Jerry Salley
Marty has received Grammy, CMA, ACM, IBMA and numerous other Awards during his impressive 40 year career. Please visit his website at MartyRaybon.com or visit www.RuralRhythm.com to learn more about his previous Rural Rhythm albums Southern Roots & Branches and Hand to the Plow.
Tags: Marty RaybonThe Back FortyRural RhythmCD ReleaseWoodsongs Coffeehouse Concert Series to Host Nu-Blu Bluegrass Band
By mixing their original songs along with traditional material, and incorporating songs from other generes, Nu-Blu creates a unique and driving blend of music which has been attracting fans and new audiences across the country.
Through the years, Nu-Blu has worked hard to develop a group that would give the listener a diverse experience. By mixing their original songs along with traditional material, and even incorporating songs from other genres, the group has certainly created a unique and driving blend of music that keeps audiences coming back for more.
Nu-Blu was founded by husband and wife team, Carolyn and Daniel Routh. Carolyn, on bass, provides her trademark lead vocals with impressive clarity and vocal range and Daniel, on guitar, brings his songwriting and vocal talents to the group. The two young guns, Levi Austin (banjo and vocals) and Austin Koener (mandolin) fill out the ranks providing the band with a solid and talented backbone.
This concert is the final show in the annual Winter series to benefit Providence Ministries in Dalton.
Tickets may be purchased from the Freight Depot gift shop at 305 S. Depot Street in Downtown Dalton, Georgia or on-line using the link below. Reserved table seating is $20, with a limited number of General admission seats at $15.
The concert series is sponsored in part by The Downtown Dalton Development Authority, Masingill Clean Air and the Dalton Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Tags: Nu-BluWoodsongs CoffeehouseDalton Freight DepotConcertEventFeller and Hill and the Bluegrass Buckaroos Available Now
Nashville, TN -- Available now is the debut release from Feller and Hill from Blue Circle Records featuring the debut single, "Big Blue Roses", written by Tom T and Dixie Hall. The CD debuted at number 9 on the Airplay Direct Bluegrass charts for the month of February. Feller and Hill are also available for radio interviews and track by track reviews of the brand-new CD. If you like traditional bluegrass and classic country music, you'll love the brand new release Feller and Hill and the Bluegrass Buckaroos.
Formed in the tradition of such legendary duos Flatt and Scruggs and the Osborne Brothers, Tom Feller and Chris Hill are also heavily influenced by classic country greats Buck Owens and Ray Price. Feller's solid, expressive lead vocals blend seamlessly with Hill's razor-sharp tenor vocals, culminating in an exciting new duo, Feller and Hill.
Shortly after their first trip to the studio, Tom and Chris received word from bluegrass radio host Cindy Baucom that a cut from their demo CD would be featured on her nationally syndicated weekly radio program, "Knee Deep in Bluegrass." The CD has received praise and recognition from other industry greats, including Rhonda Vincent, Dudley Connell, Larry Stephenson, Larry Cordle, and many others.
In early September, 2012, Tom and Chris received word that a single from their demo release "Gonna Lay Down My Old Guitar" had reached number 9 on the Bluegrass Today weekly charts. This accomplishment looks to be a sign of more good things to come, considering the single was only released for digital download via Airplay Direct. Such momentum can be attributed to the hard work and dedication these two young veterans are bringing to the table - and the stage!
In early September, 2012, Tom and Chris received word that a single from their demo release "Gonna Lay Down My Old Guitar" had reached number 9 on the Bluegrass Today weekly charts. This accomplishment looks to be a sign of more good things to come, considering the single was only released for digital download via Airplay Direct. Such momentum can be attributed to the hard work and dedication these two young veterans are bringing to the table - and soon, the stage!
“When Tom Feller and Chris Hill stepped up to the mic to sing, I was knocked out by their chemistry. They’ve got power and soul. I’ve worked with a few good singers.”
- Engineer and veteran musician Steve Thomas
Tom Feller and Chris Hill were born across the Ohio River from each other—Tom in southern Indiana and Chris in northern Kentucky. Both have performed with bands from bluegrass-rich areas of Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, and Virginia—Tom with Jerry Williamson & Redwing, The Larry Stephenson Band, Rhonda Vincent and the Rage, and with Nashville songwriter Kim Fox in the group 3 Fox Drive...—Chris with Gerald Evans and Paradise, The Wildwood Valley Boys, the James King Band, and The Karl Shiflett and Big Country Show. If you like traditional bluegrass and classic country music, you’ll love Feller and Hill and the Bluegrass Buckaroos! Their latest album will be available in early February, 2013.
“Bluegrass-bound” to get together someday—it happened when Tom was filling in on bass and running sound with his cousin, Tony Holt’s band, the Wildwood Valley Boys, during Chris Hill’s tenure with them. Tom immediately noticed Chris’s Don Rich-like tenor abilities, filing them in his best in the business category. Likewise, Chris admired Tom’s skills at bass and sound engineering.
The CD is available for purchase at http://www.fellerandhill.com/Store.php , Amazon, and ITunes. The duo has joined with the Graham Talent Group and is now accepting bookings for 2013 and beyond to promote their new CD, which will feature a wide variety of traditional and contemporary bluegrass music, as well as some classic country remakes and even a few southern gospel flavored tunes.
Tags: Feller and Hill and the Bluegrass BuckaroosTom FellerChris HillBlue Circle RecordsCD ReleaseNew Spring Valley Boys at The Crooked Road Youth Music Series Concert
The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail proudly presents a Youth Music Series Concert on Thursday, March 14th at 6:00 p.m. at Heartwood: Southwest Virginia’s Artisan Gateway. The concert will feature the New Spring Valley Boys from Grayson County. The New Spring Valley Boys grew out of the Albert Hash Memorial Band Program, directed by Emily Spencer, in Grayson County Public Schools. The band’s distinctive style merges the driving sounds of the Galax, VA, fiddle styles; the Round Peak, NC, styles of clawhammer banjo; and the rhythmic sound of old time guitar.
Fiddler Levi Funk's main goal is to keep some of the old Galax, VA, fiddle styles alive, such as that of Otis Burris. The mostly self-taught, award winning banjo player, Daniel Boyer, has a style that is influenced by that of Kyle Creed of Round Peak, NC. With his clean, note-filled playing, he is an essential part of the band’s blues-filled sound. Guitarist "Uncle Joe" Farmer, with his bass runs and driving back-up rhythm, is one of the old-time music world’s finest, and rounds out the band’s unique sound.
The Crooked Road weekly Thursday Night Music Series features youth music performers, as well as showcasing venues of the Crooked Road region. Heartwood features open jams on the 1st, 3rd, (and 5th) Thursday of every month. A complete schedule for the music series is available on The Crooked Road website at www.thecrookedroad.org.
The music series is sponsored by Heartwood, Appalachian Regional Commission, Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission, Virginia Commission for the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Admission to the concert is free and donations are accepted for The Crooked Road Traditional Music Education Program (TMEP). Heartwood: Southwest Virginia’s Artisan Gateway is located off I-81 at Exit 14 in Abingdon, VA, and features food, music, and craft of Southwest Virginia.
For more information on The Crooked Road Music Series or the Traditional Music Education Program call (276) 492-2409.
Tags: New Spring Valley BoysThe Crooked RoadCrooked RoadYouth Music SeriesEventConcertWorld Wide Bluegrass DJ Geoff Morris Died Yesterday
The beloved DJ for World Wide Bluegrass passed away yesterday after losing his battle with cancer. The "Down Under" favorite DJ has provided hundreds of broadcasts as a volunteer for the WWB WorldWideBluegrass.com and was the webcaster's 2nd international DJ to sign on, after Terry Poirier. Geoff has visited what he lovingly called "Bluegrass America" and met many of his idols, the latest being Doc Watson, and he blogged about his travels and experiences at his website.
Geoff hailed from Eaglehawk, Victoria, Australia and faithfully volunteered his time and energy to the world wide bluegrass community providing a source of entertainment unique to his perspective on his show, "Wall to Wall Bluegrass." Geoff's bluegrass DJ career began in the '70s in commercial radio prior to his transition to World Wide Bluegrass' Internet programming. It is the only Bluegrass program of its kind ever broadcast on local radio in Central Victoria, Australia.
Geoff Morris was born about the same time Bill Monroe released his Bluegrass tune "Tennessee Blues." Geoff bought his first Bluegrass record, "an LP of Charlie Moore," Geoff recalls, and he was hooked on Bluegrass music. Geoff's music background had really nothing to do with bluegrass -- he was a classical pianist. His attachment for bluegrass began after attending a folk festival in Sydney, Australia, in the late '60s.
Morris is quoted as saying, "I loved the rich, complex brilliance, yet naturalness, of this remarkable music and, of course, marveled at the wonderful close harmony singing." In recent times, he has sung in a couple of local Bluegrass groups, helped promote several very successful Bluegrass gigs and, for the past several years, hosted his weekly Bluegrass radio show.
A web page was created to help him and his family cope with the expenses of his treatments and donations may be made at http://www.freewebs.com/geoffmorris/
He was always a bundle of enthusiasm as he did what he loved, playing and talking about bluegrass music. Geoff was very much a part of the WorldWideBluegrass.com family since beginning to listen and taking an active DJ role. In April, 2008 Geoff celebrated his 100th show with the Internet bluegrass station.
Tags: Geoff MorrisWorld Wide BluegrassObituarySilent StringsBrad Gulley Moves to Lead Vocalist for Cumberland River
2013 is in overdrive for Cumberland River as this hard driving, high energy bluegrass band, has a brand new album coming out later this year. The band is currently in the studio working on their new project. This album will feature Brad Gulley in his new role as lead singer. Brad is the son of singer/songwriter/producer Steve Gulley.
Cumberland River's roots have run deep in Harlan County Kentucky hills for generations, so it is no surprise fans can hear the heritage of traditional bluegrass in their music. For the die hard Cumberland River fans don’t be alarmed there will still be plenty of Dustin Middleton and Jamie Dean’s vocals. Cumberland River’s new album will release later in 2013 from Rural Rhythm Records.
Jamie Dean said; “Moving Brad Gulley to the front man of the band, was a decision that was easy to make. Brad has such powerful vocals it was a no brainer to move him to the lead spot. He has that high lonesome voice that has really tightened our harmonies. Being Steve’s son, Brad is truly a chip off the old block”
The band actually began in 2009 and early on, they decided they would have to write their own material to ensure their music would appeal to both the younger generation as well as the fans of more traditional, bluegrass music. As evidenced by reviews from media and radio, plus their growing number of loyal fans and at sold out shows, they have certainly accomplished that goal.
2012 got off to a raring start for Cumberland River when they launched the video of their original song "Justified" and also had their original song "Antietam's Hill" featured on the SEASON 3 premiere the hit TV show Justified originally aired on the FX Network on January 17, 2012.
Cumberland River also just sealed endorsement deals with GHS Strings and Parks Leather, who will introduce the Cumberland River signature series instrument straps!
Tags: Cumberland RiverBrad GulleyJamie DeanCompass Records Announces New Bluegrass Releases for April
(Nashville, TN) March 5, 2013 – Compass Records presents its new releases for April 30th, including new bluegrass music albums from the legendary Peter Rowan as well as Compass newcomers Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen.
On the The Old School, bluegrass legend Rowan delves further into his legacy as one of Bill Monroe’s Bluegrass Boys with some of the first generation players who really know “the old school” while welcoming younger players considered to be the torchbearers for the future of bluegrass music. The album includes 11 Rowan originals and a rework of “Freedom Riders,” the Civil Rights anthem made popular by Odetta.
Featured guests include Del McCoury on the high lonesome “That’s All She Wrote,” Bobby Osborne on a stunning duet called “Stealing My Time,” Jesse McReynolds' unique mandolin style on the Rowanesque “Mountain Man’s Dream” and Bryan Sutton on the ode to Doc Watson “Doc Watson Morning.” Other guests include the Traveling McCourys, JD Crowe, fiddlers Michael Cleveland, Stuart Duncan, Buddy Spicher, Time Jumpers bassist Dennis Crouch, Jeremy Garrett of the Infamous Stringdusters, Don Rigsby and the members of the Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band.
On The Edge showcases one of the most exciting and dynamic new bands in bluegrass, Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen. With virtuoso guests Tim O’Brien, Rob Ickes and vocalist Megan McCormick joining Solivan’s skilled team of pickers, the album's 10 tracks virtually jump off of the CD as the band applies the muscle of traditional bluegrass and finesse of newgrass to material that reaches across the bluegrass and Americana spectrums. Frank Solivan’s tenor vocals soar over virtuosic picking provided by banjoist Mike Munford, guitarist Chris Luquette and bassist Danny Booth. With the release of On The Edge Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen are poised to become one of the most sought after bands in bluegrass.
In addition to these bluegrass albums, Compass Records will also release two other albums next month. Watch for a new album from top Irish vocalist Francis Black and an album from UK band Faustus via Navigator Records.
After taking a 10-year break from recording, Frances Black, one of Ireland’s top vocalists, makes her long-awaited return with Stronger. Her pure vocal tone and energetic, pop-minded delivery showcase an artist stronger and more passionate than ever about her music. “This is an album of all my favorite songs that I have sung through the years. I have loved and lived these songs, they all tell the stories of my life,” adds Black. A former member of Arcady and The Black Family, she made her solo debut with two tracks on the million-selling, multi-artist compilation Woman’s Heart in 1993.
An album-related tour with Maura O’Connell, Dolores Keane, Sharon Shannon, Sinéad Lohan, and her sister, Mary Black, broke all of Ireland’s box office records. While Black’s debut solo album, Talk to Me (released in 1994), sold over 100,000 copies and spent eight weeks at the top of Ireland’s music charts, her releases The Sky Road (1995), The Smile on Your Face (1996), and Don’t Get Me Wrong (1998) further established her as an internationally known performer.
Former nominees for the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, the Faustus a trui are three of the leading lights of English folk music of their generation. Subsequent touring saw them headlining at festivals, as well as playing sold out concerts at arts centres and clubs and, in 2007, they received a 75th Anniversary Award from the English Folk Dance and Song Society. The group features Saul Rose (Waterson:Carthy, Whapweasel), Benji Kirkpatrick (Seth Lakeman Band, Bellowhead) and Paul Sartin (Bellowhead, Belshazzar’s Feast).
Their new album, Broken Down Gentlemen, was produced by Stu Hanna of popular English folk duo Megson and features their trademark powerful delivery, faultless harmonies, inspired arrangements and a sprinkling of some of the earthiest songs in the folk cannon. In short, they are men on a mission to banish all that is bland and cliché in the delivery of folk music. Their plethora of experience is brought together in a virtuosic display of musicianship.
Tags: Peter RowanFrank Solivan & Dirty KitchenCompass RecordsCD ReleaseBluegrass Gospel Group The Churchmen Join Mountain Fever Records
Willis, VA -- Dove nominated bluegrass gospel group, The Churchmen, are joining forces with Virginia based Mountain Fever Records on their spring release Mercy Road, the inaugural venture for the band on the label. The first single from the album, “Bread and Water,” hits radio today, March 5th.
The Churchmen, a bluegrass gospel group based in Collinsville, Virginia, was formed in 1989 when they began singing in local churches. Their Southern Gospel style, four part harmony, and bluegrass instrumentation gives them a unique sound that has gained them national and international attention.
The first radio single from the new album, Mercy Road, is the song “Bread and Water,” co-written by the newest member of the band, Carroll Arnn and Jerry Salley. “We are so excited and blessed as we begin a new version of the band with the addition of Carroll. We started performing “Bread and water” and started getting crowd responses that showed us we had something special. Carroll wrote this song and brought it to the group as soon as he started in the fall of 2012. We hope everyone received the same blessings that we did,” said Gerald.
The title track from Mercy Road is penned by longtime bluegrass songwriter Becky Buller. Buller is well known in bluegrass circles and Bluegrass Unlimited said, “Buller seems to be carving out a niche for herself as the designate muse of contemporary bluegrassers…”
The group features founding member, Keith Clark on lead vocals and acoustic bass, longtime member Gerald Harbour on vocals and mandolin, former SPGMA “Male Vocalist of the Year-Traditional,” David Guthrie on lead and harmony vocals and guitar, Carroll Arnn on banjo, guitar and fiddle, occasional guest Rick Keene on resonator guitar, and Jerry Haga behind the scenes on sound.
Longtime gospel favorites and Grammy winners, Jeff and Sheri Easter said, "The Churchmen are one of the fastest growing, hottest sounds in Bluegrass Gospel Music today. We have worked with these guys a lot, and they really live what they sing.”
The Churchmen’s CD On the Journey Home was nominated for a Dove Award for Bluegrass Album of the Year while the CD Traveling Through gained widespread acclaim, including attention for the Dove nominated song “Bedside Prayer,” previously up for Bluegrass Song of the Year. Their most recent CD, I’ll Be Long Gone garnered strong reviews and continues to get substantial radio airplay.
David Higgs, host and curator of the nationally syndicated radio show Bluegrass Breakdown says, "The Churchmen certainly know how to sing a good gospel tune. More than just about any other band, they have figured out how to successfully marry the Southern Gospel style of singing to Bluegrass and the result is a compelling, exciting and powerful combination.
Tags: The ChurchmenMountain Fever RecordsBread and WaterOn The Journey HomeDove AwardsMark “Brink” Brinkman and Paula Breedlove in “Direct Buzz”
AirPlay Direct is celebrating 8 years with this issue of Direct Buzz and the company is ecstatic to be bringing their magazine back to life for their vast readership of Indie Artists, Record Labels, and Radio Stations that encompass the globe!
Their 18th issue showcases the incredibly talented Colin Linden on the cover as their "Artist Feature," and an interview with Appleseed Recordings founder, Jim Musselman, in "Behind The Desk." Found in "The Writers Round" is an interview with Mark "Brink" Brinkman and Paula Breedlove, the co-writers of "God Didn't Choose Sides," the title track of this monumental album release by their good friends at Rural Rhythm Records.
"The Indie Way" shares insightful information on how to encode ytheir music with invaluable tips and their newest column addition, "Three Questions for Radio," hosts an interview with AirPlay Direct radio member David Ludwig, Music Director of KYSM 90.1 FM. Foster Care Alumni of America is their March issue "Beyond The Song," an organization worthy of all their support and donations. "Killer Tracks" reviews the latest releases by Kris Kristofferson, Sweet Honey In The Rock, and Kathy Boyd & Phoenix Rising, while "Featured Artists" reveals the 10 winners of their new and exciting "Buzz About You" artist competition.
As they start preparation for their May issue, Bronson Herrmuth, Editor In Chief of the Direct Buzz says, "I'm thrilled with the number one goal of delivering to you their best issue ever. Just like AirPlay Direct, the Direct Buzz operates on the principal of a level playing field for all. If you are an artist with a new CD, a record label with a new release, a radio station affiliate, a new equipment company or service provider to the industry, let us hear from you. Tell us about it, share ytheir thoughts and give us ytheir input."
For more information about the Direct Buzz, please contact Bronson Herrmuth at: www.theDirectBuzz.com
Tags: Direct BuzzAirPlay DirectMark “Brink” BrinkmanGod Didn't Choose SidesRural RhythmLMU & Abraham Lincoln Library Special Musical Event a Success
Harrogate, TN -- On February 22, Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) and the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum (ALLM) presented a special benefit music event at the Sam and Sue Mars Performing Arts Center of the Duke Hall of Citizenship. The historic concert celebrated the new Rural Rhythm Records’ album, God Didn’t Choose Sides: Civil War True Stories About Real People with extraordinary performances by some of the top talents in bluegrass music.
Those in attendance could certainly feel the compassion of the songwriters while experiencing incredible performances by: Steve Gulley, Dale Ann Bradley, Marty Raybon, Carrie Hassler, Brad Gulley, Tim Stafford, Dave Adkins, Gap Creek Quartet, Vic Graves, Don Gulley, Debbie Gulley, Sierra Hull, Jason Burleson, Brandon Godman, Phil Leadbetter, and Bryan Turner.
Gary Burchett, LMU Trustee exclaimed, “What a wonderful event! I was instantly taken by the title God Didn't Choose Sides early in the planning process. Then it all came together when the awesome talent performed flawlessly. I am excited about the next in what I hope will be a long series of get-togethers.”
The album’s producer, Steve Gulley, also performed and served as host of the evening. “On the evening of February 22, the clock was turned back to the 1860's for a special night of music and folklore, said Gulley. “Inside Mars Performing Arts Center at Duke Hall the music, laughter and tears flowed through the enthusiastic crowd as they enjoyed the music and stories from, God Didn't Choose Sides. What a truly special night for me and everyone involved in the making of the music and planning of the event. It's a night I will never forget and a memory I will always cherish."
The album, God Didn’t Choose Sides: Civil War True Stories About Real People, includes 12 original songs inspired by journals, stories and artifacts from soldiers, civilians and politicians during the Civil War. "The LMU live performance event at the Duke Hall of God Didn't Choose Sides truly brought alive the stories behind the songs and people whose lives were impacted by the Civil War. These true stories about Amos Humiston, Jennie Wade, Carrie McGavock, John Burns and others should not be lost or forgotten and preserved for future generations" said Sam Passamano, President of Rural Rhythm Records.
Not only was the live concert event a success, but radio stations have certainly welcomed this new album. Cindy Baucom, host of the popular Knee Deep in Bluegrass weekly syndicated radio program, recently featured numerous tracks from God Didn’t Choose Sides. For more information on the album, please visit GodDidntChooseSides.com for interviews, additional content relating to the history behind the songs, songwriters, performing artists and musicians.
Located on the historic campus of Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee, the university houses one of the top five Lincoln and Civil War private collections in the world. The Museum is open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about this and other programs at the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum, call 423-869-6235.
Tags: God Didn't Choose SidesGod Didn’t Choose Sides: Civil War True Stories About Real PeopleRural RhythmAbraham Lincoln LibraryLMUEventFlagler Museum Presents Bluegrass In The Pavilion Concert
Palm Beach, FL -- The 9th Annual Bluegrass in The Pavilion concert continues to bring the best Bluegrass musicians to South Florida. In 2013, Audie Blaylock and Redline and Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver will perform great Bluegrass music at this National Historic Landmark. All proceeds from the concert benefit South Arts’ emergency planning for Gulf Coast cultural institutions. The event takes place Saturday, April 13, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. The Pavilion will open at 2:30 p.m. and tickets are just $30.
With over 35 albums to their credit, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver have multiple Grammy, Dove, ICM, IBMA and SPBGMA Award nominations, and are seven-time winners of IBMA’s Vocal Group of the Year. Doyle Lawson received two nominations in the 17th Annual Inspirational Country Music (ICM) Awards held in Nashville on October 28, 2011, with fellow nominees including such country giants as George Strait and Carrie Underwood. Lawson also won two IBMA Awards, and was recently heralded by journalist Craig Havighurst as “one of music’s lions...”
Of Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver’s performance at the August 2011 IBMA Awards Press Conference, which garnered three standing ovations from a sold-out crowd in Nashville, Havighurst wrote: “There was no question who was going to close the show. Doyle Lawson is one of music’s lions at this point, and when he came out in perhaps the most beautiful western jacket I’ve ever seen... he was a holy vision. ... When DLQ, in quartet mode, nailed the final chorus of the a cappella gospel song “He Made It All Right,” I swear we were mainlining the holy spirit. You know how the word awesome gets overused and misused? Here’s where it applies.”
When it was completed in 1902, Whitehall, Henry Flagler’s Gilded Age estate in Palm Beach, was hailed by the New York Herald as “more wonderful than any palace in Europe, grander and more magnificent than any other private dwelling in the world.” Today, Whitehall is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public as the Flagler Museum, featuring guided tours, changing exhibits, and special programs.
The Museum is located at One Whitehall Way, Palm Beach. The Museum is open from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, and noon until 5:00 p.m., Sunday. Admission is $18 for adults, $10 for youth ages 13-17, $3 for children ages 6-12, and children under six are free. For more information, or to purchase tickets please call the Flagler Museum at (561) 655-2833 or visit www.flaglermuseum.us
Tags: Flagler MuseumDoyle Lawson & QuicksilverAudie Blaylock & RedlineBenefitConcertEventJeff Brown & Still Lonesome Play Traditional Bluegrass at Carter Fold
Hiltons, VA -- As a member of Larry Sparks and the Lonesome Ramblers, Jeff Brown has performed on many famous stages such as the Grand Ole Opry, Austin City Limits, the Ryman Auditorium, and Song of the Mountains – just to name a few. Jeff also toured with the Charlie Sizemore Band and has done fill in duties with Blue Highway, Rhonda Vincent, Dr. Ralph Stanley, and many more. The Still Lonesome Band is made up of Austin Brown, Noah Brown, Meredith Goins, Josh Blankenship, and Josh Underwood. Saturday, March 9th, 2013, at 7:30 p.m. the Carter Family Fold in Hiltons, Virginia, will present a concert by Jeff Brown and Still Lonesome. Admission to the concert is $8 for adults, $1 for children 6 to11, under age 6 free.
Jeff began playing at the age of nine. Still in elementary school, Jeff and his brother Tony formed the Richlands Bluegrass Boys. In 1993, Jeff was asked to audition for Larry Sparks as a bass player and tenor singer. Landing the job, Jeff worked with Larry from 1993 to 1996, and again part-time in 2007. He’s featured on Spark’s latest release Almost Home as well as three other projects. While performing with Sparks, he was asked to play bass for Johnny & June Cash at the Fold. Jeff teaches guitar, acoustic bass, and serves as the Director of the Traditional Music Program at Southwest Virginia Community College. He coordinates and co-chairs both the Virginia Mountain Music Festival and the Mountain Music Jamboree and serves on the Crooked Road’s board of directors.
Austin – Jeff’s son – has been playing guitar and bass since he was three. Noah, Jeff’s nephew, has played with his dad Tony and Uncle Jeff from the age of six. He plays guitar and bass and sings both lead and harmony vocals. Meredith Goins began playing the violin at age three. She has studied at UTC’s Cadek Consedrvatory, Vanderbilt’s Blair School of Music, and at ETSU in their bluegrass program. She’s won national championships and is a first-place winner at Galax. In addition to the ETSU Bluegrass Band, she’s done shows with Vassar Clements and many other internationally-known artists. Meredith is also a member of the Chattanooga Youth Symphony Orchestra. Josh Blankenship plays mandolin and does vocals for the group. He’s performed with several bluegrass bands in the past. Josh Underwood handles the banjo playing, and he’s also a good songwriter and vocalist. Having performed with various bluegrass bands, he’s learned from some of the bluegrass greats.
For an evening of some of the best traditional bluegrass our region has to offer, come out and see Jeff Brown and Still Lonesome at the Carter Fold! This show will mark their first performance at the Fold. Bring along your friends and your dancing shoes, and get ready for an evening of fun-filled, family entertainment. Visit their web site - http://jeffbrownandstilllonesome.com/ - for additional information.
Tags: Jeff Brown & Still LonesomeJeff BrownLarry Sparks and the Lonesome RamblersCarter Family FoldConcertEventICMC To Discuss The Golden Age of Bluegrass
Ron Roach, a colleague of long time International Country Music Conference (ICMC) friend Bill Brown at Young Harris College in Young Harris, Georgia will be discussing a fascinating Bluegrass topic. Roach will discuss “The Golden Age of Bluegrass on the West Coast: Early History of the Golden State Boys.” Roach asserts that the “1960s were a Golden Age for bluegrass music on the West Coast. Flatt and Scruggs became a national sensation on The Beverly Hillbillies and the Dillards were regulars on The Andy Griffith Show.
One of the most important early bands in California was The Golden State Boys, formed in 1960 by Herb Rice, father of Tony Rice, and two of Herb's brothers-in-law: Hal and Leon Poindexter. The band would later include Vern Gosdin, Del McCoury, Larry Rice, and Chris Hillman. The discussion, based on interviews with former members, fills in missing gaps in the history of the Gold State Boys.”
In addition to this part of the conference there will also be other topics related to bluegrass music including Lance Kinney on What is Bluegrass Anyway (WIBA)?. Banjo artist and historian Murphey Henry will highlight Women in Bluegrass. James Akenson of the ICMC writes, "Receiving Murphy Henry’s proposals was particularly pleasing! Murphy will be dealing with a significant topic “Enduring Issues In Bluegrass: Pretty Good For A Girl.” ICMC has considered the role of women to be worth consistent attention whether as individual presentations, as topics for the Charles K. Wolfe Memorial Panel, or as the focus for the ICMC keynote."
Katy Leonard will discuss 5th Generation of Bluegrass Music as a great followup to Kinney's WIBA discussion. Leonard’s presentation is not designed as a formal rebuttal to Kinney, but it will certainly provide fascinating thoughts about Bill Monroe and the nature of innovation, continuity, and change in Bluegrass.
Each year, the conference has great coverage of interest to bluegrass fans, educators, scholars and historians. The ICMC is always looking for new and refreshing bluegrass music material to incorporate into their event. Past events have been both educational and entertaining for those in the bluegrass and country music related industry.
Again for ICMC 2013, the Holiday Inn Vanderbilt will be the official ICMC hotel. A block of rooms has been set aside at the attractive rate of $109 (single-quad) plus applicable taxes with access to the Holiday Inn shuttle as well as opportunities for socializing and riding to and from Belmont with fellow ICMC attendees. You may call the Holiday Inn Vanderbilt directly at 615-327-4707 or 1-877-327-4707 and ask for the reservation department. Ask the reservation operator for accommodations with the International Country Music Conference---group code ICM. Reservations must be made by Wednesday, 24 April 2013. After 24 April, the hotel will release any unbooked rooms. Additional reservations requests will be honored on a space and rate availability basis.
Tags: International Country Music ConferenceICMCEducationEventCountry Cooperative Initiative Recognizes Mountain Fever Records
They continue by elaborating on how they work, "We look first at what type people make up a a band before we even talk to them. Just being an amazing musician won't get you into our family circle unless you have a heart to go along with your other talents. Our bands work together to help out in any situation. We're family, we've got each other's back."
The music speaks for it's self. Mountain Fever Records began signing bands back at the end of 2009. they started as a regional label and quickly followed it to a National level. The label now represents 12 groups from 7 different states and 2 countries. The label says they will be expanding to near 20 bands and as long as the great DJs keep playing their music and the fans keep buying it, they will keep to the path they are on.t be welcome into our homes. value=
Tags: Mountain Fever RecordsCountry CooperativePromotionBusinessACMA Announces Blue Ridge Acoustic Uprising
The Appalachian Cultural Music Association (ACMA) announces a new musical gathering for bluegrass, old time and Americana musicians and fans to be held at the Wytheville Meeting Center April 12 & 13, 2013.
This gathering titled “ACMA’s Blue Ridge Acoustic Uprising” will be an event that brings together and recognizes the music and musicians who play what has been coined as “The Galax Sound”. Karl Cooler, an ACMA member, who came up with this descriptive “Galax Sound” title says, “Our region is saturated with tremendous talent who create a unique musical experience. The ‘Blue Ridge Acoustic Uprising’ will be a unique convention to bring together old time, bluegrass and Americana musicians in a way that no other gathering does.”
Cooler recently released a recording on his Mountain Roads Recordings record label titled “Close Kin” that was the beginning of the idea for the Blue Ridge Acoustic Uprising. The regions of Southwestern Virginia, East Tennessee, Western North Carolina, Eastern Kentucky and West Virginia have been the core for the development of bluegrass, old time and many Americana forms of music. Johnny Williams of Danville, Virginia, chairman of the committee organizing this event, says, “Our event will be unique to other musical gatherings especially noting that we will be ‘formally’ recognizing ‘old time’ musicians and their music.
Other than the Galax Fiddler’s Convention held annually there is no ‘official’ recognition of the talents and accomplishments of old time musicians past and present. The ACMA through the Blue Ridge Acoustic Uprising will recognize and promote old time music and musicians as well as bluegrass and other acoustic forms of Americana Music.”
The event will be “membership driven” and bands and individuals can sign upan d become members at the ACMA website.
At the event April 12 & 13, 2013 there will be awards, workshops, children’s activities, jam sessions, musical vendors, and a main stage for registered bands to perform and showcase for promoters, record label executives and fans of the music. Plans also include unveilings of artifacts to be placed in the ACMA’s “Mountain Music Museum” to recognize pioneers who created and cultivated these forms of music.
Tickets will be available soon as well as information on area motel and hotel accommodations. Organizers are working with officials in Wytheville, Virginia to finalize details for this event. Information can also be found on the Blue Ridge Acoustic Uprising’s Facebook page.
The ACMA is a non-profit 501c3 organization which operates the Mountain Music Museum and Pickin Porch in Bristol, Virginia-Tennessee.www.mountainmusicmuseum.org and www.pickinporch.org
Tickets will be available soon as well as information on area motel and hotel accommodations. Organizers are working with officials in Wytheville, Virginia to finalize details for this event. Information can also be found on the
Billy Strings & Don Julin Making a Quite a Buzz
There is pickin' and then, there is PICKIN' and these two know how to pick. In addition to that, they deliver the goods from beginning to end. With just the flat-picked guitar and the mandolin these two weave their instrumentation into a fine fabric of acoustic wonder. Playing fast is one thing. Playing fast with emotion and instrumental harmony is quite another. These two manage to perform that task extremely well. Here is a video that illustrates that very well...
Billy Strings is a 20 yr old, tattoo covered guitar picker/singer that you surely will be hearing about for years to come. “Blessed with the voice of an old soul from the mountains, a gentlemanly air, and the ability to sling hundreds of notes with razor-crisp precision at the speed of a machine gun, Strings’ flat-picking talent seems almost beyond comprehension to veterans of the local bluegrass scene, especially given his youth.” Northern Express Publications.
Don Julin is a total mandolin geek. For over 30 years, he has built a reputation as being one of the most eclectic and versatile mandolin players today. From jazz to bluegrass, from Vivaldi to Led Zeppelin, old-time fiddle tunes to ambient buddah-bar loops. His original mandolin compositions have been licensed by HBO, VH1, MTV, NBC, Showtime, Bravo, National Geographic Explorer, Fox Sports, and others. Julin is the author of the best-selling “Mandolin For Dummies” (Wiley & Sons 2012) and is an in- demand mandolin teacher giving mandolin workshops and master classes around the world.
Tags: Billy StringsDon JulinBilly Strings & Don JulinGuitarMandolin