Comprised of Isabel Dammann on fiddle, Krisys Bergmark on tabla, and Ilan Blanck on guitar, the trio that refers to itself as Sprig of That takes a decidedly exotic approach to their rootsy regimen, one that finds them infusing their
Author: Lee Zimmerman
-
-
Bluegrass Beyond Borders: Czech band New Aliquot
If there's any further proof needed that America's influences are part of a universal language, one need only check out the music made by New Aliquot, a band from the Czech Republic that knows its way around bluegrass, country, and
-
Billy The Kid – Billy Droze
There’s a reason why Billy Droze is one of the most respected musicians in bluegrass today. Music has been his motivating force as far back as he can remember. A son of the south who was born in Lafayette, Louisiana
-
Country Music Time – Jean-Luc Leroux
A French-born guitarist, mandolin and harmonica player based in New Caledonia (an island nation located in the southwest Pacific Ocean), Jean-Luc Leroux takes a new turn with his latest album — and 13th to date — Country Music Time. While
-
Bluegrass Beyond Borders: Rawhide keeps it rollin’ in Belgium
Few outfits on either side of the Atlantic can claim as lengthy a legacy as the Belgian band Rawhide. Now in its 46th year of existence, they've gained a reputation throughout Europe as a premiere bluegrass band that's unafraid to
-
Long Hill To Climb – Wolfpen Branch
Given their recent announcement that they’re calling it a day, Wolfpen Branch can claim they're exiting with a worthy epitaph. What will presumably be pronounced the Louisville, Kentucky band’s final album, Long Hill To Climb is a fine effort from
-
Here We Go Again – Nothin’ Fancy
Given an impressive history that can be traced back nearly 30 years, Nothin' Fancy's considerable accomplishments certainly belie an otherwise unassuming handle. Having tallied eleven full length albums, performances at such prestigious venues as the Ryman Auditorium, Lincoln Center the
-
Bluegrass Beyond Borders: Steve Louvat in Belgium without his brothers
Steve Louvat is not only a prolific musician, but it's also fair to say he's one of Belgium's best. "I was born in Liège, Belgium, and today I live in the south area, a village called Libin," he explains. "I
-
Songs of Steel and Wood – Steel & Wood
Based in Petoskey, Michigan, Steel & Wood rightfully describes itself as a band that specializes in heartfelt music borne from tradition, and the roots that originated in Appalachia, specifically the seminal sounds of Bill Monroe, Ralph Stanley, Jim & Jesse,
-
Jimbo Whaley & Greenbrier – Grandpa’s Pocket Knife
Given the down home implications inherent in the title, it's hardly surprising to find singer and songwriter Jimbo Whaley, a native of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, making music that is inherent in the Appalachian culture connected to his birthright. After all,