Promoters will have an unusual choice in 2016: They can book Adkins & Loudermilk or they can book Adkins or Loudermilk.
Both Dave Adkins and Edgar Loudermilk will release solo albums early next year, and will book their bands as well as the duo.
“We’re both just stretching our legs a bit,” Loudermilk said. His unit will tour as the Edgar Loudermilk Band featuring Jeff Autry, who also plays with Adkins & Loudermilk. Loudermilk, already well into the recording process, said fans can expect to hear more instrumentals and “some swing influence.”
Adkins heads into the studio in early November. “I’ve got some really cool material,” he said. “I’m excited.”
Loudermilk’s project should be ready for release in the first quarter of the year. Adkins’ CD won’t be far behind, if at all, a timing that’s sure to spawn a good-natured competition between the two front men.
In the meantime, their debut album and several cuts are holding steady on the charts and will bridge the gap until the solo material is sent to DJs. Dave will also be teaming up with Larry Cordle on a project about the Hatfields and McCoys.
Both artists stress that the solo bands are meant to supplement Adkins & Loudermilk, not supplant it. The current plan is for a new duo record in 2017.
Meanwhile, Loudermilk said, budget-minded promoters who can’t pay the Adkins & Loudermilk fee can book one of the solo acts at a reduced rate.