Greg McGrath

Davidson Brothers to Play Grand Ridge Brewery

25 May, 19 by Greg McGrath Leave a Comment

The Davidson Brothers are headed down to Gippsland today to play a show at the Grand Ridge Brewery, just over the hill from their hometown of Yinnar.

If you do not know the Davidson Brothers they are amazing musicians, incredible songwriters and captivating performers. The Davidson Brothers promise Mirboo North an electrifying night of high octane bluegrass, tender country songs and lots of light hearted joking and story-telling.

About The Davidson Brothers:

For over 20 years now Hanish and Lachlan Davidson have firmly carved their contemporary acoustic style into the Australian music scene. Having grown up in the rural Victorian town of Yinnar. Raised in a musical family, the brothers began playing music and performing from a young age. With seven albums under their belt, they have built the reputation of being one of Australia’s hottest bluegrass acts – multi instrumentalists on banjo, fiddle, mandolin and great entertainers who deliver high powered acoustic music at its best.

Australian Country Music Award winners in 2009, 2010, 2012 and 2018 (x2), Hamish and Lachlan Davidson are “the best young bluegrass pickers we have seen for a long while in Australia and a very exciting live act,” according to Troy Cassar-Daley.

Cost – $25/$30+BF presale
Time – 8pm doors, music from 8:30pm.
Tickets are available here.

Tour Dates:

Sat 25 May 2019 Grand Ridge Brewery – Mirboo North VIC TICKETS	Sun 21 July 2019 ‘Davidson Brothers 20th Anniversary Show’ The Curtin – Melbourne VIC TICKETS
Sat 29th June, 2019 Charlton Footy Club – Charlton VIC TIX AT DOOR	Thursday 16 August 2019 Lazy Bones – Marrickville NSW
Fri 19 July 2019 ‘Davidson Brothers 20th Anniversary Show’ True Brew – Bendigo VIC TICKETS	22-25 August 2019 Gympie Music Muster QLD TICKETS
Sat 20 Jul 2019 ‘Davidson Brothers 20th Anniversary Show’ St Ambrose Hall – Woodend VIC ON SALE SOON	Sun 1st December, 2019 House Concert – Healesville VIC BOOKINGS

For more information and dates CLICK HERE

Bluegrass Junction to Play Wheatsheaf

24 May, 19 by Greg McGrath Leave a Comment

The boys from Bluegrass Junction are performing at the Wheatsheaf Hotel this Sunday, 2nd June, from 4:30pm to 7:00pm with free entry.

The Wheatsheaf Hotel is at George Street Thebarton.

Bluegrass Junction comprises Trevor Warner, Nick Cawthorne and the Geoff Bridgland and Stephen Loss. Trevor is a Hall of Fame inductee and three times Australian bluegrass banjo champion, and now he fronts the band as a superb bluegrass fiddler. Nick, one of Australia’s finest bluegrass guitarists, drives the rhythm on a vintage Degruchy guitar, complemented by Geoff on banjo and all held tightly together by Stephen’s enthusiastic and powerful bass playing.

This band is among the best there is.

2019 Bluegrass Conference

22 May, 19 by Greg McGrath Leave a Comment

News just in from the 2019 Bluegrass Conference relates to this year’s teaching faculty which features six international musicians. The list below is in development and other names will be announced soon.

Jens Kruger – North Carolina USA
Josh Goforth – North Carolina USA (fiddle, mandolin, guitar)
Jenny Lester – British Columbia Canada (vocalist, fiddle, song writer)
The Sonoran Dogs – Arizona USA
- Mark Miracle (mandolin)
- Peter McLaughlin (guitar, vocals)
- Tyler James (banjo)
Bruce Packard (bass, mandolin)
Anita Nahuysen (claw-hammer banjo)
Mark Nahuysen (guitar)

There are some planned changes to the 2019 conference and some early-bird discounts for some of the premium accommodation options.

Conference Dates: Thu to Sun, December 12th – 15th
Cost: $890
Spaces: 60

For more information on the 2019 Australian Bluegrass Conference or to seek registration details use the contact below.

Farm Hands – I Can’t Go Home Anymore

16 May, 19 by Greg McGrath Leave a Comment

Award-winning Bluegrass quartet the Farm Hands have announced the release of their brand new single, I Can’t Go Home Anymore. The Pinecastle Records release will serve as the group’s lead single from their forthcoming project, coming this fall. In addition to being available for radio airplay, fans can preview the song and download or stream the song here.

I Can’t Go Home Anymore tells the story of a childhood home, and all of the memories that were associated while growing up. The song also serves as a reminder of the past, but also a thought-provoking reminder that one can never go back. Written by Farm Hands’ member Daryl Mosley, I Can’t Go Home Anymore details real-life experiences from the singer’s childhood with its empowering message.

Already, 2019 is turning into a memorable year for the Farm Hands. The chart-toppers were awarded four awards at SPBGMA’s annual Bluegrass Awards including the coveted “Album of the Year” with their previous release, Colors, along with “Song of the Year” for the No. 1 hit Hillbilly Graham. As the year progresses, the Farm Hands have many more surprises in store, and a lot more new music on the horizon.

Fans can keep up-to-date with all things Farm Hands by visiting their official website. While there, music lovers will be able to check the band’s jam-packed tour schedule which includes stops at festivals and venues all summer long throughout North America.

Banjo History Podcast.

14 May, 19 by Greg McGrath Leave a Comment

The banjo is a very popular instrument, and it’s popularity is currently growing rapidly. However, there’s a convoluted and misconstrued history of this instrument.

Here is a podcast from Tony Thomas, African American Banjo Scholar, about the history, origins and commercial explosion of the banjo.

Visit the podcast here. Once you get through the advertising waffle the podcast is great listen.

Gena Britt – Chronicle: Friends and Music

11 May, 19 by Greg McGrath Leave a Comment

Bluegrass singer Gena Britt is kicking off the year with a Grammy nomination alongside her all-female band Sister Sadie, and later going on to debut at the legendary Grand Ole Opry, Britt is determined to carry on that momentum with the announcement of her brand new solo project. The upcoming album, appropriately titled Chronicle: Friends and Music is set for release July 12 via Pinecastle Records. Fans can pre-order the upcoming collection here, where they’ll instantly be able to download the lead single.

I’ve always wanted to capture the magic that happens when you create music with your friends. Pinecastle Records, who I’m excited to be partnered with, has allowed me to do just that on Chronicle: Friends & Music. Twenty-one of my most favorite people, who happen to be incredible musicians and singers, have joined me on this recording and I’m so excited for everyone hear it – Gena Britt.

Serving as the first taste from the project, the opening track Over and Over serves as the lead single. Written by Eli Johnston and Kevin McKinnon, the upbeat track features Britt singing lead vocals, while Sister Sadie bandmate Tina Adair performs tenor. The result is an upbeat anthem that is sure to strike a chord with fans of traditional Bluegrass music.

The hard-hitting project pays tribute to Britt’s North Carolina roots, showcasing the lonesome Mountain sound which the banjo extraordinaire has perfected. Included on Chronicle: Friends and Music are 13 new recordings, with a star-studded lineup of guests. One key highlight is a collaboration with reigning IBMA “Female Vocalist of the Year” winner, Brooke Aldridge and Flatt Lonesome songstress Charli Robertson on the classic Bill Monroe track, On and On. Another standout moment on Chronicle: Friends and Music is the Brent Cobb written Traveling Poor Boy which features ACM and CMA winner Marty Raybon singing lead, while Britt sings along.

With the formation of the critically-acclaimed group Sister Sadie, Britt wanted to showcase part of that sound on the upcoming album. One example is Dale Ann Bradley’s vocal contribution to the track, You Don’t Get Over That, where the 5-time IBMA “Female Vocalist of the Year” winner sings tenor. Powerhouse vocalist Tina Adair also joins Britt on four of the recordings, singing tenor and high baritone. ACM winner Deanie Richardson also contributed via fiddle on five of the tracks, helping to create a full and cohesive sound.

The album buildup has already begun, with Britt performing over the weekend at the legendary Station Inn. Including a number of special guests, the audience was able to hear several of the tracks performed live for the very first time. Stay tuned for even more exciting news to come as it gets closer to the official release.

Chronicle: Friends and Music Track Listing

1. Over And Over
2. You Don’t Get Over That
3. Soldier’s Lament
4. Get Up In Jesus’ Name
5. Runaway Train
6. On And On
7. Come To Jesus

8. Traveling Poor Boy
9. Daddy’s Shoes
10. Untold Stories
11. Ships That Don’t Come In
12. Big Country
13. Looking Forward To The God Life

All Stars of Bluegrass – There Ain’t No End To This Road

10 May, 19 by Greg McGrath Leave a Comment

The All Stars of Bluegrass is excited to announce their brand new single, There Ain’t No End To This Road, which serves as the concept band’s newest release via Pinecastle Records. Created by 2-time IBMA winner Phil Leadbetter, the band’s vision is to create a unique sound that focuses on the members who are all high-profile award winners. On the current release, Robert Hale sings lead, while Leadbetter plays Dobro, Steve Gully performs bass / background vocals, Alan Bibey on mandolin / vocals, and finally Jason Burelson plays banjo.

There Ain’t No End To This Road is available for download and streaming HERE.

I formed the All-Stars of Bluegrass because I was trying to find a new concept. Something that hadn’t really been done. I thought about, how can you form a band that does not get stale? Then I had the idea of finding a way to put together a group with lots of variety and unpredictable material. Then I thought, why not put together an all-star group using high-profile and award winning musicians. People with their own identity, who could perform some of their material, but played by different people who were not on the actual recordings – Phil Leadbetter.

The new song showcases Hale’s powerful vocals, while also giving other performers a chance to shine. There Ain’t No End To This Road serves as the lead single from the band’s upcoming star-studded album, slated for release later this year. The track tells a universal story which was perfectly captured by songwriters Neil Thrasher, Michael Dulaney and Kent Blazy. Radio DJs can also download the track on AirplayDirect.

Since forming in 2017, the All Stars of Bluegrass have created a unique concept, which has already brought together top artists in the genre, all coming together to perform their songs and material. As the year unfolds, the All Stars of Bluegrass have many more exciting announcements to come. Stay tuned as the group unveils new material with special guests all joining forces on the star studded album.

Chris Davis Joins the Grascals

10 May, 19 by Greg McGrath Leave a Comment

The Grascals have announced the addition of bluegrass veteran, Chris Davis on guitar and lead vocals. Davis is no stranger to bluegrass music, having worked with some of the top bands in the industry since he was a teenager. Growing up in the bluegrass hotbed of southwestern Ohio, Davis follows in the tradition of The Osborne Brothers, Larry Sparks, Dave Evans, and more bluegrass stars who got their start in the Dayton, Ohio area.

Chris is a third generation bluegrass musician. Chris’ father, Danny Davis, is a respected traditional bluegrass singer in the Miami Valley of Ohio. It is with his father and grandfather (Elzie Davis) that Chris got his start as a teenager playing alongside them in the Davis Brothers Band. Chris remained a fixture in the regional bluegrass scene for many years, before bursting on to the national scene with Larry Cordle & Lonesome Standard Time in 2006.

In addition to Larry Cordle & Lonesome Standard Time, he has worked with some of the biggest names in bluegrass and beyond. Over the years, Davis has provided support to Melvin & Ray Goins, Larry Sparks & The Lonesome Ramblers, Junior Sisk & Ramblers Choice, Wildfire, Marty Raybon & Full Circle, and even country superstars, Diamond Rio.

Chris Davis’ talent as a harmony vocalist and a multi-instrumentalist is very well known to bluegrass fans. However, he is really excited for the opportunity to showcase his abilities as a lead singer and guitarist.

I’ve always wanted to play guitar and sing lead in a band, and I never dreamed it would be with The Grascals! I am so excited for this change in my music career, and I can’t wait to hit the road and get in the studio… this is going to be great – Chris Davis.

The Grascals are really looking forward to this new chapter. Having been a fan of Chris for a long time, they are excited to showcase his talents, and show audiences why his lead singing is the “best kept secret in bluegrass,” according to Danny Roberts, founding member of The Grascals.

We (The Grascals) can’t wait for our fans and friends to hear Chris Davis with us in his new role as lead singer/guitar player, along with John Bryan.
Chris is a gifted, soulful singer and a great guitar player, and the vocal blend with Terry (Smith) and John (Bryan) is outstanding! The Grascals are very pleased to welcome Chris Davis to the band — Danny Roberts.

The Grascals’ award-winning banjo player, Kristin Scott Benson previously worked with Davis and can speak first hand for what he brings to the table.

I traveled with Chris for five years prior to The Grascals, and I always enjoyed working with him — musically and personally. I’m really stoked that he’s one of us (The Grascals) now – Kristin Scott Benson.

The addition of Chris Davis to The Grascals follows founding member, Terry Eldredge’s decision to leave the road. The Grascals wish Terry all of the best in his future endeavors. He has been a veteran of the bluegrass industry for decades, and has been a hero to many, including Kristin Scott Benson.

I grew up watching Terry Eldredge play and sing. He’s a hero of mine and it has been an absolute privilege to stand beside him for eleven years – Kristin Scott Benson.

More importantly than gracing bluegrass stages for three decades, Terry Eldredge has been a friend to the entire bluegrass industry, and we will definitely miss his smile on the road. Fellow Grascals founder, Terry Smith shares these words about his good buddy, “El”.

It has always been hard for people to think of one Terry without thinking of the other. After nearly 30 years of performing together, it’s tough for me to even imagine being on stage without him. I have never had a better friend or a better band mate than Terry Eldredge. I will certainly miss him and I wish him the very best.
I have known Chris Davis and his musical talent for some time. He is a wonderful musician and singer and I am looking forward to having him as one of the Grascals – Terry “Smitty” Smith.

We wish you the best, El. Once a Grascal, always a Grascal. Thanks for the memories.

The Grascals are currently working on a new album for Mountain Home Records, slated to be released in 2019. For information on the band, visit their website, www.grascals.com.

Tommy Webb – Bluegrass Boys

8 May, 19 by Greg McGrath Leave a Comment

Kindred Records has released the CD project Bluegrass Boys by Eastern Kentucky bluegrass artist Tommy Webb.

The twelve songs on the album offer a wide range of emotion and feel, with eight songs written or co-written by Tommy himself. His originals always have mountain soul, and include the upbeat Bluegrass Boy’s title cut for all the pickers and grinners, the awesome country hook of What am I doing, ‘Doing Her Wrong?’, and the incredible harmonies of the Gospel number If We Believe. These three singles are available for radio download at AirPlayDirect, however the full CD will be delivered to all Bluegrass Unlimited and Bluegrass Today charting stations.

Tommy sings lead tenor & his main instrument is the guitar, but for an enthusiastic audience this crowd pleaser will burn it up the ol’ claw hammer banjo, kickin’ up a little dust in Dixie. Tommy is a talented, heartfelt, humble bluegrass writer and singer, “who can evoke pure emotion with every note – Tim Frye, WPAQ Radio.

Bluegrass Boys was recorded, engineered, and produced by Ron Stewart. Click here to visit Kindred artist page for more info or to buy the CD.

Tommy is one of those rare ‘Down to Earth, No Sugar Coating’ talents that comes along once in a great while, that grabs you and makes you listen – Ron Stewart.

Bluegrass Boys is now available from iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, and various social media platforms. The album is being serviced to radio and digitally by AirPlayDirect.

Bluegrass Country Soul Movie Restoration Almost Complete.

5 May, 19 by Greg McGrath Leave a Comment

Crowd Funding Campaign Aims to Save Classic Film Made at Legendary Festival

Reportedly the first feature film about bluegrass music (Washington Post, July 6, 1972), Bluegrass Country Soul is approaching a deadline in its crowd funding campaign on 15th May, 2019, when naming opportunities for the restoration project must conclude.

Bluegrass Country Soul features performances from first-generation bluegrass icons such as Earl Scruggs, Ralph Stanley, Chubby Wise, Jimmy Martin and Mac Wiseman as well as stars of today such as Sam Bush, Del McCoury and Ricky Skaggs. Others in the film are: J.D. Crowe, The Osborne Brothers, Tony Rice, The Lilly Brothers with Tex Logan and Don Stover, The Bluegrass 45 (from Japan), The New Deal String Band, and, in a rare appearance, Roy Acuff.

Earlier last month, we were finally able to see how much the old 35mm print has faded. Fortunately, with the assistance of modern digital technology, Bluegrass Country Soul can still be restored – Albert Ihde, the film’s producer/director.

This is a labor of love for Ihde and his wife, Ellen Pasternack, who is the Executive Director on this project.

Bluegrass fans who join the campaign at a minimum of $100 will receive a multi-media box-set when they come out on 1st September, and can choose to have their name, and/or the name of someone they wish to honor, in the closing credits of the film and book. Higher levels of sponsorship are available too – Ellen Pasternack.

This newly restored version of the film will premiere at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum in Owensboro, KY, on 2nd November, and will be donated to the museum’s permanent collection.

The box-set includes a Blu-ray, high-definition and a standard DVD combo pack, a coffee table book with tons of photos, a brand-new documentary about the festival and film, two CDs of music not heard in the film, and more.

We’ve been interviewing musicians and others who were at the festival, and they will be included in a second commentary track. Noted bluegrass historian Fred Bartenstein is updating his earlier commentary track – Ellen Pasternack.

To order a box-set, learn more about the contents, for sponsorship details, videos, and to sign up for our newsletter, please visit the Bluegrass Country Soul website.

For additional information, please contact us at info@bluegrasscountrysoul.com or call: (805) 965-1508. YOu can also write to:

Bluegrass Country Soul
PO Box 23211
Santa Barbara, CA 93121