Don Rigsby hosted a reunion of one of the classic Lonesome River Band lineups this past weekend at The Mountain Arts Center in Prestonburg, KY. The show featured Don, Ronnie Bowman, Sammy Shelor and Kenny Smith, who performed together as LRB from 1995 to 2001, and recorded three albums for Sugar Hill (One Step Forward, Finding The Way, Talking To Myself).
These four went their separate ways in ’01, and have each found success in different corners of the music world. Sammy has stayed with LRB, which he now manages; Rigsby and Smith have their own bands; and Bowman has made his mark in Nashville as a songwriter.
From all accounts, the guys had a blast rehearsing and playing the show, and as this video compilation from the concert demonstrates, the spark they lit 15 years ago still burns bright.
I remember as if it was yesterday… A long-legged Sammy Shelor dancing in and out of the microphone; women shrieking each time Ronnie sang a line; super tight picking and singing. I guess some things don’t ever change.
Don Rigsby tells us that the concert was professionally recorded and shot for video, and he is hoping that a DVD release will be forthcoming. A multi-track recording was also underway, until the system crashed midway through the show.
Don also mentioned that this reunion edition of the band is considering doing some more shows together, schedules permitting. I would certainly love to see these guys live once again!
