Sideline has announced the departure of their mandolinist and a primary vocalist, Brian Aldridge. He has been with the band this past two years.
North Carolina bluegrass fans had watched Brian grow up on stage. His dad, Mike Aldridge, was a member of the Bass Mountain Boys for many years, and was with them that he first appeared on stage playing mandolin or banjo. Mike remains active in bluegrass, working now with Al Batten & Bluegrass Reunion.
The Aldridge bluegrass tradition is also kept alive by Mike’s younger son, Nathan, who remains a member of Sideline. The rest of the band includes Skip Cherryholmes on guitar, Steve Dilling on banjo, Jason Moore on bass, and Brad Hudson on reso-guitar.
Though formed initially as a side project by a number of pickers who were gigging full-time with other groups, commitments changed over the years, and now Sideline works a full schedule on the bluegrass circuit.
On behalf of the band, Dilling shared these thoughts…
“We appreciate the 2 years that we were able to play with Brian. He is a talented musician and we wish him well in future endeavors. We are sad to see him go, but yet we are excited to bring in a new band member and see what the future holds.”
Until a full-time band member can be hired, Ashby Frank will be filling in on mandolin and high lead vocals. Anyone interested in auditioning for the mando/vocal spot is invited to contact Steve Dilling by email or phone (919-398-0366) to discuss the position and possibly schedule an audition.
