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Jody Stecher is a long-time performer and promoter in the old-time, bluegrass, and folk music scene. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Stecher began playing at the age of twelve and grew to gain a background of those music styles, while learning to play guitar, banjo, fiddle, and mandolin. His collaboration with his wife Kate Brislin…

As a leading figure to rise out of the ‘60s folk revival, Tom Paxton’s songs have been recorded by everyone from Johnny Cash and Doc Watson to Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson and Peter, Paul & Mary. His “The Last Thing On My Mind” and “I Can’t Help But Wonder Where I’m Bound” have, of course,…

If you’re a bluegrass purist looking for an album that sounds like it just wandered from the Appalachian foothills, look no further. Ancient Songs et al is heavily fortified with evangelical hymns, Woody Guthrie, Townes Van Zandt, AP Carter, and of course, Bill Monroe. Dry Branch Fire Squad seeks to preserve the essence of these…

Singer/songwriter Rick Lang follows up his IBMA award-winning CD, Gonna Sing, Gonna Shout with another all-star ensemble of musicians on Blue Collar Gospel (Billy Blue Records). The magical vocal pairings for the 11-cut project including Becky Buller and Nathan Woodard (“Rise Above It All”), Dave Adkins with Alecia Nugent and Jerry Salley (“Old Rugged Me”), Barry Abernathy featuring John…

Bluegrass and Life at 85 Photo By Jason Tanner At age 85, Bluegrass Hall of Famer and Grand Ole Opry member Del McCoury still presents an impeccable image of professionalism and musical excellence onstage. He is quite simply one of the most respected ambassadors and one of the best-loved artists in bluegrass music. With a…

Q: I have been a subscriber to Bluegrass Unlimited for around 45 years or more; this is the first time I have been in touch. I have a question. The Columbia recording by Flatt & Scruggs “Don’t Get Above Your Raisin’” has Chubby Wise listed as the fiddle player. It sounds more like Benny Martin…