Articles

Stephen Wade is best known for his Banjo Dancing series of performances that featured his interpretation of traditional and old-time banjo and fiddle music. The name of the project, “Hands On The Tune,” comes from the ability of artists to take historical tunes, remake them, and put their own stamp on them. Wade showcases this…

A distinctive quality of bluegrass music is that songs about being lonesome–not just out of sorts, but isolated, remote, veritably swirling with feelings of abandonment–can be delivered in an upbeat, practically giddy style. The title of Kathy Kallick’s latest album prepares the listener for a depressing dirge. The reality is a welcome surprise.  Bluegrass Unlimited…

The primary directive for bluegrass gospel music is not to simply entertain, but to invite the listener to experience something personal and spiritual. At the same time, it has to be performed in an engaging and proficient manner to even crack the door open for its higher purpose. The Chigger Hill Boys and Terri have…

In the fall of 2022, I explored the region of Southwest Virginia that has produced some of the most famous musicians to ever appear in the long lineage of American roots music.  The 1,435-mile-long highway known as Route 23 makes its way from Jacksonville, Florida, to Mackinaw City, Michigan. About halfway in-between those two destinations…

From the twin cities of Minnesota come this interesting trio who formed around five years ago. They are Isabel Dammann (violin), Krissy Bergmark (tabla), and llan Blanck (guitar). Along with guest Olivia Diercks (cello), the group has produced a very pleasant all-instrumental project that has its roots in tradition but is quite modern in approach….

Jerry Douglas was one of the most insightful people whom I interviewed for Discovering Tony Rice, Tony’s oral biography. He was perceptive about Tony because he is insightful about himself. We see that what Jerry has to say about his old friend also says much about himself.  I spoke with Jerry on July 12, 2022…