Luke Shamblin, bluegrass artist and songwriter of Raleigh, NC, has just released his latest single, North on 79. Co-written by Shamblin and Larry Nixon, the song is a heartfelt reflection of memories of home, and connections with traveling the road, that leads the listener back to his origins.
Inspired by Shamblin’s familiar drive along Interstate 79 through West Virginia, North on 79 tells the tale of a traveler heading home through the Appalachians. Using vivid imagery of winding mountain roads and solid storytelling techniques, the composition blends nostalgia with gratitude for support received by family and friends along life’s journey.
North on 79 features a standout lineup of accomplished musicians: Jason Barie on fiddle, Derek Vaden on banjo, Corey Hensley on bass and harmony vocals, with Shamblin on guitar, mandolin, and lead vocals.
Produced by Shamblin, the recording offers strong traditional bluegrass instrumentation by this assemblage of top-notch pickers with some nice peg twisting on the banjo by Vaden. Shamblin shows off his mando mastery by incorporating a little of Jesse McReynolds’ cross picking into his break.
This is much more up tempo from his last release, Hills of Home, but retains that heartfelt love and appreciation for family heritage.
North on 79 is available on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, and all major streaming platforms.
