The David Parmley Band at Industrial Strength Summer Fest 2026 – photo © Bill Warren
The Industrial Strength Summer Fest kicked off at the Greene County Fairgrounds in Xenia, Ohio. Hazy, hot, and humid! John Curtis Goad put it best: “My body has pores all over it, and every one of them is sweating!” Joe Mullins welcomed everyone. Bluegrass royalty was on site. Paul Williams and family enjoyed the music.
Seven bands put on tremendous shows.
Tommy Brown reprised the County Line Grass to kick off the show. Jason Barie and Chris Davis stood in with original members Tommy, his wife Laura, and daughter Rachel. It took this old photographer back many years to the Milan and Charlotte festivals in Michigan where the band was a staple.
Lincoln Mash and Heather Alley have become regulars at many area festivals. They provide strong original music along with many bluegrass favorites.
The festival enjoyed an international flavor with The Often Herd coming from the United Kingdom. This is a talented group of young men that honor the traditions. Look them up and listen to their music.
Edgar Loudermilk and his band played Thursday, hosted a late-night jam, and plays again Friday. Shew! The band has traveled the whole country and parts of Canada this summer.
Jeff Tolbert is a 30-year alum of The Primitive Quartet. He has kept that sound alive with Jeff Tolbert and Primitive Road. Every lover of bluegrass gospel needs to see and hear this band.
Hall of Fame member David Parmley brought his band to the Summerfest stage. He continues to honor the memory of Randall Hylton. He has recorded twenty five of Randall’s songs over the years. He is recognized as one of the very best rhythm guitar players.
LRB closed out the day. There is little left to be said in praise of this band. Its history speaks for itself!
Friday and Saturday bring fourteen more bands to the stage. Head for the Greene County Fairgrounds!
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