Nothin’ Fancy had a perfect weather weekend for their 16th festival this past weekend. Remington Ryde opened Friday’s show to a “ready for some bluegrass music” crowd. They were followed by multi-IBMA award nominees, Flatt Lonesome. Then Little Roy Lewis and Lizzy Long hit the stage at a hundred miles an hour – the normal!! Roy has more energy at 74 years young than most 18 year olds.
Larry Stephenson is a favorite at all Virginia festivals. He joined Remington Ryde in a tribute to Ryan Frankhouser’s grandmother in the evening set. Nothin’ Fancy closed out the day to happy audience.
Saturday brought the Moron Brothers to the stage. Their excellent musicianship and humor keep the crowd on the edges of their seats. Junior Sisk is another favorite Virginia native. He keeps the sound of the “Blue Ridge” alive and well. The Spinney Brothers from Nova Scotia were up next. They are a Canadian band that sound as traditional as any band on the circuit.
Balsam Range made its first appearance at the festival to the crowd’s delight. Nothin’ Fancy closed out a great festival. One of Chris Sexton’s fiddle students joined him for some really good twin fiddling.
In the words of Nothin’ Fancy: “Next year’s festival is September 21st, 22nd, and 23rd!”
