Posts by Shawn Szirbik

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  The once non-existent band, Pretty Saro, burst into the Boston bluegrass scene in early 2016, shaking up the definition of American roots music. Since then the four-piece string band has crafting their invigorating blend of contemporary songwriting, burnin’ bluegrass traditionals, and pop sensibilities into a sound that is uniquely their own.  Dynamic arrangements and high-energy performances enhance the Saro’s (sair-ohs) stories of commitment and desertion, taking the listener on a journey through their personal experiences. Pretty Saro draws their inspiration from acoustic giants such as Nickel Creek, Crooked Still, Hot Rize, and John Hartford to name a few.  Maxfield
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From the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia, comes one of the most entertaining bands in the bluegrass genre, Nothin’ Fancy.  As a matter of fact, they’ve won SPBGMA’s award for Entertaining Group of the Year six times!  Nothin’ Fancy was formed as a bluegrass band in 1994 to compete in a bluegrass competition.  Ever since then, they have grown in popularity, released 11 full length albums, and continue to perform at festivals all across the United States, Canada and Norway including the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN, the Lincoln Center in New York City, and the Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia.  They have
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The Bill Thibodeau Band is hitting the Southern New England bluegrass music scene hard and fast with powerful rhythmic-drive and hard core traditions. This ambitious energized band is rapidly becoming a local favorite at several festivals and venues. Bill Thibodeau and two of the band members are descendants of first generation bluegrass pioneers, pickers and families which adds a marinated flavor to this unique group. A must see–and hear. We hope to pluck at your heart strings and raise your spirits in laughter, tears, and uncontrollable tapping of your feet! The Band Jesse Burdick (banjo and vocals) was born in
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“If you think you don’t like Bluegrass, Damn Tall Buildings can probably change your mind. A room full of ambling event attendees were instantly energized by the barnstorming quartet who combined the virtuoso playing of Jordan Alleman (Banjo), Avery ‘Montana’ Ballotta (Fiddle), Max Capistran (Guitar), and Sasha Dubyk (Upright Bass) with three-part vocal harmonies. Songs started and ended in a wallop of notes with a hint of the furious-but-fun energy of punk, accompanied by the spontaneous stomping of the audience’s feet…their musical synergy was unmistakable and the music was performed with a playfulness that requires both competence and confidence.” —
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Red Molly combines the forces of three songwriters with unique character and style, creating a show that is larger than the sum of its parts. Known for their 3-part harmony, their songs and arrangements lay bare a love of vocal blend. The band weaves together threads of American music—from country & blues to folk & bluegrass. Their innovative instrumentation is suited for roots-rock and heartful ballads alike, and the alchemy of their personalities onstage draws even back row listeners into a sense of intimacy. Red Molly is simply a joy to experience. Singing spine-tingling high notes, Abbie Gardner is a
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  Colorado’s FY5 proudly swim in the deep currents of American music, playing new songs, well-informed of country and bluegrass traditions, but not bound to them.  Featuring thoughtful arrangements, strong singing and musicianship, the band strives to connect to listeners with stories of common struggles and big ideas. While their sound evokes timelessness, it is decidedly contemporary, well-traveled 21st century sensibility that informs their songwriting. As they share the stories that drive the songs, FY5’s show leaves listeners certainly with tapping toes, but ranging thoughts as well. FY5 is excited for the release of their 4th full-length album in early
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