The Artists

In a bluegrass world where bands see regular turnovers, Mark Stoffel is an anomaly.  For the past 16 years, the mandolin ace for Chris Jones and the Night Drivers has been laying down a solid chop on tours across the country and with his creative innovations on sevenof the group’s CDs. After growing up in…

How Pitney Meyer Brought Together A Red Jeep, Analog Tape, And Johnny Cash To Form A Redemptive Parable Photos by Nathaniel Maddux/Slate + Glass March 10th, 2023 The historic Ryman Auditorium is packed to the brim with a sold-out crowd. On the digital signage outside above the steps facing 5th Ave North, there is a…

The Bluegrass Hall of Fame in Owensboro, Kentucky is, of course, devoted to the heritage, history, and future of bluegrass music.   In terms of the future, it’s also proven to be an incubator that provides showcases for promising local talent.  “Everybody talks about the beginnings and Bill Monroe and Rosine,” says Steven Stewart, founding…

Has Bluegrass In Their Blood Photos by Kelle Daggett Perry Fast Track is a band with a musical lineage. Each of its five members evolved from a musical heritage. No strangers to the bluegrass community, they are all veterans of the stage and road. Dale Perry, Steve Day, Duane Sparks, Shayne Bartley, and Randy Barnes…

Balsam Range’s longtime bassist Tim Surrett has worn plenty of musical hats over the course of his career. Vocalist/sideman/singer/producer/sessions player/record label owner, but these days he’s soaking in the joy of fatherhood. At age 60, he spends as much time as possible with his only child, Braden, 15, a junior on the high school baseball…

Putting The Right Pieces Together Individual photos by Jeromie Stephens Take bluegrass A-listers: Don Rigsby, Josh Williams, Mike Anglin, Ron Block, and Steve Thomas. Individually, each is talented, versatile, and well-known throughout the bluegrass community. Collectively, they form a powerhouse group that is destined to have a huge impact upon the bluegrass industry. Meet Southern…