The Hillsboro Hay Incident 

Tim May and Steve Smith had met while teaching at Camp Bluegrass in 2012; a friendship was sparked that would ignite an enduring musical journey. Five albums and a slew of shows across the country have ensued in the following years, leading up to their latest duo album Hillsboro Bay Incident. 

Like their predecessors such as David Grisman and Tony Rice, May and Smith have become bearers of a sacred torch that burns brightly still.

Hillsboro Bay Incident is an album of instrumental tunes, and though there are no vocals a lot is still said. Like so much of traditional bluegrass, there’s a wealth of Americana with guest styles such as swing, blues, and even Latin that make cameos throughout each tune. The title track has a feel of the Appalachian foothills, with rolling melodies of guitars licks and mighty fine fiddling from players like Robert Bowlin. Adversely, you have clever renditions such as “Mozarts Greasy Coat” which start in another era and slowly transition to the present with soulful pairings of mandolin and guitar.

Like the greats before them, Tim May and Steve Smith seem naturally gifted at improvisation and taking ownership of their craft. An old-timey tune you’ve heard a thousand times can suddenly feel brand new when it’s played by their fingers. Their track records speak for themselves; May has toured with a slew of artists including Patty Loveless and was the guitar player on Charlie Daniels’ 2005 Grammy nominated album I’ll Fly Away. Smith has been a session player in over 30 records for artists such as Tim O’Brien and many others. The two artist also continue to teach various guitar and mandolin workshops as well, not only perfecting their craft in the process but helping to pave the road for the torch bearers of the future.