Album Review: The Vespers - Sisters and Brothers

It's been a long time since I first heard The Vespers when they opened a show for Cadillac Sky. The young quartet has just released their third album, Sisters and Brothers - which I listened to a Brite Revolution.The title is relevant since the band is comprised of two pairs of siblings - the Cryar sisters and Jones brothers.  The band started out as a roots folk band with some bluegrass; but their latest expands into more of a rock-pop sound. A perfect example is "Cynical Soul" with it's acoustic instruments, but pop melodies. I like how the album begins, with the slow opening in "Break the Cycle" and "Signs" has a rockin' Black Keys feel. I suspect one power-pop song that will be popular is "You Leave Me" - but for my tastes - I like the old Vespers sound. Cheers.

Levi Lowrey & Friends Fire Up an Awesome CD

Levi Lowrey first crossed our radar a few years back, when he replaced Bryan Simpson for a short stint with Cadillac Sky. Yes, that period was short, but Lowrey says it was not only beneficial to his career, "but it was even better for my personal life. I made lifelong friends during that time." Once Cadillac Sky diss-banded, Lowrey returned to songwriting -- at times collaborating with Zac Brown and Clay Cook.

With all this material, he recently spent two weeks at the Southern Ground Studios in Nashville recording and collaborating with a stellar set of musicians including Cook, fiddler Ross Holmes (Mumford & Sons/Cadillac Sky), Oliver Wood (The Wood Brothers), and the acclaimed Mac McAnally. Even former Cadillac Sky members Matt Menefe and Bryan Simpson joined the party. Add in Zac Brown acting as the executive producer along with co-producers Matt Mangano and Cook and that's a nice pedigree for a final product.  The self titled album official release date is February 25th but I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy. 

I've been listening for a couple weeks now and one of the beauties of this album is how diverse each song sounds. Lowrey responds that "Every song has a different personality. I don't like to get in the way. My band and I like to let the songs go where they want to go." The diversity is not only the songwriting but the style - rock, country, blues, gospel, bluegrass - bits and pieces of each genre are well represented.  And there's power and purpose to the music - it makes ya think.

The opening track, Picket Fences (makes a solid defense when you just want to go back home), is a rhythmic rockn' song with jammin' guitar solos. The rest of the album is Lowrey laying out his soul. Everyone who's had a bad year - or two - can relate to December Thirty-One (It's been a long year) and as a parent of a boy - Trying Not To Die - hits home. That Is All is a rootsy blues number with a powerful finish, sandwiched between two ballads that feature Lowrey's steady vocals. Want some alternative gospel? I've Held The Devil's Hand. The most powerful song is Urge for Leaving - a biographical tale on the hurdles of having basically three parents - just listen.  And keep listening to the end as the album finishes with a wonderful ballad in What She Don't Know, my new anthem, Barely Getting By, and some flying fiddles and guitar in Flywheel and more rock n' roll in War Pigs. This is a awesome album period, and for someone like me that enjoys all genres of music - much appreciated.

Lowrey has a several tours scheduled this year in support of the album, starting with a stint opening for the Zac Brown Band and a CD release party at one of his favorite venues the Red Clay Theatre in Duluth, GA on the 25th. Then in April his calendar has aligned with Clay's for a CLAY vs. LEVI: ROUND 2 tour where "We will both walk out on that stage. But only one of us will walk out with the title. You know what I'm talkin' about, Mean Gene!!?". Yes I do Hulk Hogan and I'm looking forward to the match on April 9th at Jammin Java. And while listening, Lowrey recommends pairing with Nashville's Yazoo Brewing Company, in particular, their Gerst Amber Ale -"At least, it was used in the recording process." Cheers.

Ross Holmes + Kym Warner = 1 Fabulous House Concert

On Friday December 3rd, we attended our first house concert featured two extremely talented musicians: Ross Holmes, fiddler for Cadillac Sky and Kym Warner, co-frontman and mandolinist for The Greencards. Regular readers will know that we admire both these bands and so this was a very exciting combination. For those who have never attended a house concert that premise is rather simple - yet it delivers a rich experience for both fans and musicians. In exchange for a slightly reduced cover charge and a pot luck entry, fans receive both an intimidate setting for live music but also direct access with the artist. For instance, my favorite part of the evening was listening to Ross describe the history of several famous violins and their designers and then discussing our favorite brands of Scotch. That's a difficult conversation at most venues. For musicians, the benefits are just as satisfying. First they do not need to split the proceeds with the venue. And second, they are assured an audience - one of the pressures of any musician when touring is hoping people will actually attend.

Holmes and Warner have played together at many private jam sessions following festivals and lately at home, since Holmes moved in on the same street. Holmes also filled in last year for a few tour dates with The Greencards, so its not surprising that the two have developed a chemistry both musically and with their stage presence. This evening they performed a potpourri of music consisting of past and future Greencard material, an original swing number from Holmes, a Gypsy Jazz number, a cover of Doc Watson, and many more songs. House Concerts are also prone to improvisation and experimentation, such as Holmes steppin' out on the mandolin or Warner breaking out the ukulele. I can't articulate enough how talented and entertaining these two musicians have become. Still can't get "More Pretty Girls Than One" out of my head. We look forward to early 2011 when both bands come back to our area starting with The Greencards at The Barns at Wolftrap on February 9th. For more information on these artists and their respective bands check out their latest CDs below as well as their websites. We also have two very amateurish videos available at the MyJoogTV YouTube channel.

Letters In The Deep - Cadillac Sky
Cadillac Sky

Fascination - The Greencards
The Greencards

For Cadillac Sky Fans: A Message From Bryan Simpson

We are printing this email that Bryan Simpson sent out to followers of Cadillac Sky last night. We wish him well on his new mission in life. We've heard rumors regrading his replacement; but will post the official announcement.

Friends.....


     Three years ago I would have never imagined this day anywhere in my near future. But that was before Jesus Christ turned my life upside down and made me forever His in the Spring of 2008. Since then He has continued to devour my life and everything in it. Daily my desire for Him grows. The longing for more time spent in complete devotion to Him combined with a desire to be more mobile in my faith has led me to this decision.

     Over the last year I have felt a relentless stirring in my soul that it was time for me to leave Cadillac Sky. So, after many long months of prayer, in the summer I informed the band of my decision. From that moment I have had a great peace about it. Now don't get me wrong, C-Sky has been a huge part of my life for so long it will be weird to not be in it. But even with the  great opportunities that have come along since, I have never felt an ounce of regret or second guessing in my spirit. But I also have no regrets for my time spent in C-Sky. Through it God has drawn me to Him, and has given me great friends that are more like brothers than bandmates. Not to mention, for the better part of eight years, I've heard my songs played by some of the most creative and talented musicians this planet has to offer. And last but certainly not least, I have been honored with a great family of fans ever since this thing got going.
    
     The vision for my life post C-Sky is still coming together but the mission for my life is simply the furthering of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I petition your prayers as I am sure my greatest avdventure is yet to come.
     
     One last thing I would ask: Please continue to support my friends as they move forward with Cadillac Sky. And know this: the man that is going to move into my vacated spot, an announcement deserving of its own email, is extremely gifted and will not disappoint. I am excited to see and hear what is to come. Cadillac Sky is in very good hands.
     
     I sincerely thank all those who have encouraged me, taught me, and loved me with open arms over my time in Cadillac Sky.

Sincerely,
Bryan   

2010 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion

Scotty Melton, Annie Robinette, The Drunk Uncles, Carson Peters & the Rockhouse Stringband, Kelley & the Cowboys - these may not be household names yet; but they are truly what makes the 2010 Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion special. See, these artists played some of our favorite sets over the weekend and which made it even more worthwhile - they were totally unexpected. These were the first time we heard of - let alone seen these artists. The Drunk Uncles got us grooving with some nice Duck-Rabbit Milk Stout and singable country tunes - particularly those from Bob Marley.Carson Peters made me a bit home sick, but this 5-year old is amazing on the fiddle. And Scotty Melton - what a songwriter - have to find a way to get his material - and not just those covered by Justin Townes Earle.

Over the weekend we were also able to catch up with two acts that we met at Floydfest and two acts who participated in MyJoogTV. While driving down, we listened to an EP from Big Daddy Love and they are close to becoming our new favorite act. Interesting songwriting, smooth vocals, and jammin' musicians - what more do you need. And their friends at Possum Jenkins can also put on a great show - more Americana in style - but equally as entertaining.  Then there's Cadillac Sky and Holy Ghost Tent Revival. What more can we say about them, particularly since they stepped up for Episode 1 and Episode 2 of MyJoogTV. Cadillac Sky's performance at the Piedmont stage was the best set I've ever seen them and for HGTR - if you missed the Dance Tent - you missed a raucous crowd, a proposal, and a typical HGTR show: high energy, great music, and loads of entertainment.

It seemed Friday night revolved around the two sets from The Infamous Stringdusters. And why not - each of these guys could front their won band - but together - they could be the most entertaining bluegrass band around. And they were playing in two completely different settings - the subdued but acoustic Paramount Theater and the rowdy Piedmont stage. It sort of reminded me of seeing them at a sit down show at Jammin Java and then a stand up show at Iota. Give me the rowdy - particularly if The New Familiars are involved.See you at The Festy.

Saturday night was a real treat with The Gibson Brothers, Holy Ghost Tent Revival, Cadillac Sky, The Felice Brothers, Drive-By Truckers, and Unknown Hinson.  What a lineup. The Gibson Brothers are true professional - I could listen to them all night long. The Felice Brothers were energetic despite returning from Europe in the previous 24 hours prior to their set. The DbT proved that they are a real rock-n-roll band - they have that aura that says - we are the real deal. And Unknown Hinson - enough said - we appreciate the promoters for getting him on board.

There were also other excellent acts we witnessed over the weekend. Blues were well represented with
Phil Wiggins & Rick Franklin and M.S.G.-The Acoustic Blues Trio. The Carolina Chocolate Drops put on a great set at the State Street stage Sunday afternoon - what an entertaining and talented trio; can't wait for their Birchmere show. We also caught a few songs from   The Steel Wheels, William Walter & Co., and Yarn. Wouldn't be a festival without seeing at least a few numbers from these bands.

The one downside, besides missing other artists because of scheduling conflicts, the sound on Friday night. Big Daddy Love fought through terrible sound engineering - always pushing the engineer for the proper configuration. Sometimes the banjo was too low; other times too loud - the same with most of the other instruments. And on the Piedmont Stage, unless you were right night to the stage, forget about hearing Todd Snider's vocals clearly. And that's a huge issue, since his attraction, his primarily the songwriting. If you can't understand the words - why listen? Fortunately these issues were fixed the following day.

Despite this one complaint - what a great festival. Already looking forward to next year.....

MyJoogTV: Cadillac Sky @ Tarara Winery

Last night we filmed our inaugural episode of MyJoogTV, where we pair musicians with makers of wine, beer, and spirits. This show featured bluegrass sensation Cadillac Sky in a discussion of wine and music with Jordan Harris, the winemaker at Tarara Vineyard & Winery. Specifically we discussed the similarities with wine making and composing music as well as the shared experience of facing critics - consumers, experts, and within the industry. During the discussion we sampled three yet to be bottled wines in Tarara's new "Nova" series. These wines are made from the best grapes grown in specific vineyards or appellations and the futures are actually already sold out. The episode also includes a songs from Cadillac Sky's performance that evening at the winery and should be ready for download in two weeks. Thanks also to Echo Propp, from WAMU Bluegrass Country, for participating as well.

Cadillac Sky's New CD "Letters in the Deep" In Stores Today!

Cadillac Sky's latest CD, Letters in the Deep, is now available in stores. We highly recommend it.

Merlefest 2010

I had the time of my life at last year's Merlefest and could never imagine the festival getting any better. But they succeeded. How, well let's see, my first three hours were spent listening to Cadillac Sky, The Greencards, The Gibson Brothers, and Donna the Buffalo. In fact the herd had more to listen to as a result of John Cowan playing with The Doobie Brothers and Jim Lauderdale having Donna the Buffalo as his backup band. Three sets in two days - sort of alleviates the pain of missing them May 14th at The State Theatre. But with that first four, I could have left happy. But there was much more to see, particularly the acoustic blues artists that I discussed here. Obviously Ben Prestage left his mark, and I've always loved Corey Harris and Phil Wiggins. Add in Harry Manx and blues legend John Hammond and this group easily surpassed last year's group. Thanks Roy Book Binder.

What also made this year so enjoyable that several artists I enjoyed for the first time last year; Missy Raines & The New Hip, The Belleville Outfit, and Bearfoot were back again. Some had slight lineup changes, but they were tight - particularly Missy Raines. They are happening... Last year I only saw one set from Cadillac Sky and was determined to see more. That wasn't too difficult since they were scheduled for six sets over two days. I couldn't help but run into the band. I even overheard a brief practice session inside the college as they prepared for the Midnight Jam. These guys may have a zany stage presence, but they are true professionals. I heard another attendee comment that Cadillac Sky is mimicking The Avett Brothers; and you know there may be some truth to that. All artists absorb some influence from other bands - but I think there is way more originality in their music. They can play true bluegrass, gospel, an Americana flavor and well as straight rock n' roll. Also, loved their a Capella song on the Hillside. Yea, Mayfield is entertaining - but he can play and sing - as do the rest of the band. This is one act on the rise.

One band from last year that I didn't follow as much, because of scheduling conflicts was The Greencards. Last year, I followed them from stage to stage. This year I caught a few songs here and there. But those few songs remind me how talented they are. Whenever I hear Carol sing Patty Griffin's "What you are" it sends shivers down my spine. Every single time; that song was written for her to sing. And Kym and Tyler seem to have quickly acquired chemistry and not to omit Jake who adds a fuller sound with the acoustic guitar. The Greencards are easily one of my favorite bands; I may have taken them for granted this year - but fortunately they are returning to Jammin' Java in July.

Last year Scythian was the band with the buzz - you saw crowds growing each successive set. And these guys are entertaining - even when you've heard the same lead in a dozen times. I was glad they were invited back - and Merlefest can not have a Saturday night dance party without them. But the band with the buzz this year had to be Great Big Sea. I've heard bits and pieces over the year, but nothing comes close to a live performance. I'm talking about charisma, heart pounding percussion, crowd participation. I think this is where Scythian wants to be a decade from now - because Great Big Sea is the best alternative folk act I've seen. Fortunately the band is coming to the Filene Center at Wolf Trap in August. Me and the little boy be on the lawn dancing and clapping away.

The strength of Merlefest is the overall talent of artists that they schedule at the festival. Last year I practically ignored the headliners and searched for the unknown acts - particularly in the Lounge. But this year, the headliners were too much of a draw - and I'm not even including Zac Brown. Actually I was never a big fan of the artist - but was impressed with his performance and demeanor at the Midnight Jam. I think the promoters were real happy that he participated; maybe I should take a look at his earlier work and not the CMT videos. In any case, I couldn't believe the scheduling with the other headliners. Some of the headliners were obvious choices; Sam Bush and Dailey & Vincent come to mind. In fact it was the first time I've been able to see the top ranked bluegrass band in action. They are good. Scheduling Steve Martin playing with the Steep Canyon Rangers was not a risk, but a coup. Perhaps the single msot entertaining set - part comedy, part real bluegrass. And it helps having a phenomenal backup band and a $500 ipad. Only a few songs from the Crow really stuck with me, Daddy Played The Banjo being one of them, so I'm really looking forward to Martin's next tour and collaboration with the Steep Canyon Rangers.

Now, the Merlefest promoters did think outside of the box and scheduled Little Feat and Elvis Costello to headline Friday and Saturday night. Yea, I know Costello performed a few years back, but still - for headliners at Merlefest - not the usual selections. Truth be told, I skipped out of Little Feat, only because I was exhausted after five hours sleep, five hour drive and 12 hours on my feet. Plus I'll see the band on the 9th at The Belmont Country Club when they co-bill with Delbert McClinton for the first show of the Loudoun Summer Music Fest. However, I wasn't going to miss Elvis Costello. I've followed him since high school and "My Aim Is True"; and save for one show at the ACL, I've never seen him live. Then he strolls onstage with an all-star supporting cast lead by Jerry Douglas and Jim Lauderdale. Instant credibility with the audience - this was an alt-country show. He played some new songs - specifically his ode to Doc Watson - but his arrangements for the classics were brilliant.(The Angels Wanna Wear My) Red Shoes, Every Day I Write The Book, and Allison stand out. All I know is that I need to pick up Secret, Profane and Sugarcane.

Saturday was easily the best (and longest) day of music I've experienced, and that doesn't even include the Midnight Jam. The event was hosted by Zac Brown and its a time for the artists to unwind and experiment. The The Greencards played some Don Henley, The Duhks played a little boogie, most played together: Cadillac Sky, Jim Lauderdale, Donna the Buffalo. The stars however, were Samantha and Zeb of the Snyder Family Band. Not only was their performance astonishing because of their youth (11 and 14 respectively), but there stage presence were as good as any mature band. Closing my eyes I thought I heard Tony Rice on guitar and she was the little conductor - nodding to each guest their turn to take lead. How could anyone follow that performance. That was an eye opener - I needed it after listening to 16 hours of live music. What a day.

More photos are available at the MyJoog Gallery.

2010 Merlefest Day 2

The second day of Merlefest (our first) was quite a day. It started with Cadillac Sky on the Hillside and watching David Mayfield roll down the hill. Then some Greencards, Gibson Brothers, Great Big Sea, Phill Wiggins + Corey Harris, Donna the Buffalo, more Cadillac Sky, Steep Canyon Rangers, Ben Prestage, more Greencards, the Belleville Outfit, Harry Manx, more Donna the Buffalo, Dailey & Vincent, Brave New Combo, Dierks Bentley & the Travlin' McCourys, and Sam Bush. Sorry Little Feat; I had to retire. A great selection of music. I'm also sorry I couldn't fit in the Chris Austin songwriters - but it was Donna The Buffalo.... New music to check out. Great Big Sea was a huge hit; the one man band Ben Prestage; I was also impressed with Dierks Bentley - he's more rounded than most country artists. Want crazy; try Brave New World - they have a great sound.

Today, Saturday, we are looking forward to more Cadillac Sky, Greencards, Great Big Sea, Donna The Buffalo playing with Jim Lauderdale, Scythian, and of course, Roy Book Binders' greatest blues you've never heard acts. This list includes Ben Prestage, Harry Manx, and Phill Wiggins + Corey Harris, but also John Hammond, Mitch Greenhill, and Eleanor Ellis. Its going to be a great day.

Cadillac Sky - Jill Andrews @Jammin’ Java

Since we plan to cover Cadillac Sky at next week at Merlefest, we made sure we made it to their Jammin' Java last evening, the 26th. And to our surprise, Jill Andrews opened the evening. We first started following Ms. Andrews after hearing the everybodyfields during their Daytrotter.com session. We were hooked. Sam Quinn and her have since moved on to solo work - and this was our first chance to see her alone. There is no doubt that she has an amazing voice and obviously a relaxed and comfortable stage presence. Her challenge will be to separate herself from the large class of female singer-songwriters who all have excellent vocals. We wish her well - maybe we will catch her at Bonnaroo.

On the other hand, Cadillac Sky seems to have stood out from the crowded bluegrass\americana genre. They band members are personable and put on an entertaining performance and for that reason we chose to highlight them at Merlefest. See our interview posted a short while back and just in time, they are releasing Letters in the Deep in early June. But for tonight at Jammin' Java the band was their typical selves. David Mayfield even entertained offstage - Bryan Simpson was solid on vocals - love Ross Holmes' fiddle - Andy "The Panda" Moritz's bass - and Matt Menefee's banjo. These guys rock - keeping checking back over the weekend on Twitter and Facebook for live updates.

MyJoog Artist: Cadillac Sky

While attending several festivals over the past few years, we've noticed a consistent presence at each event - Cadillac Sky. Because of scheduling conflicts we never really got a chance to see the band each performance, but for the few we heard, we were impressed. Plus, several artists have sung their praises. As a result we have decided to follow the band more closely during this year's Merlefest and as a preview the band is playing at our local venue, Jammin' Java, on April 26th.

Cadillac Sky consists of five guys who play the classic instruments made famous but Bill Monroe. But don't classify them as merely a bluegrass band; instead they prefer to be described as a band that happens to play these instruments. A majority of the band plays the mandolin and guitar (Bryan Simpson, David Mayfield, and Ross Holmes), with Holmes also contributing the fiddle. Andy "The Panda" Moritz on bass and Matt Menefee on banjo, piano, and drums. After releasing two CDs in successive years in 2007-2008 (Blind Man Walking, Gravity's Our Enemy) the band has waited until this year to release their next project: Letters in the Deep.

The upcoming CD (June release) is produced by Dan Auerbach of Black Keys fame who helped to produce a non-traditional bluegrass album. How non-traditional? Various members break out the piano, drums, melotron, and even a glockenspiel. Combined with their traditional instruments they are "expanding musical frontiers" to include more rock and pop into their sound. We can't wait to hear the entire product, but for a quick listens samples are available at the band's Facebook and Myspace pages. Make sure you check back often for coverage of their April 26th Jammin' Java show and at Merlefest. Frontman Bryan Simpson also was kind enough to answer several questions regarding Cadillac Sky and the new CD:

1) MyJoog.com concentrates particularly with the live music experience. What are your favorite venues and festivals?

Well festivals are easy: Merlefest '09 for us was sort of our coming out party so that one's obvious, Telluride, Rhythm and Roots in Bristol, Rockygrass was probably my favorite one to be at and just hang- or maybe we just did it before we had done any of the others so you know, it's a "never forget your first" kind of thing....other spots that are real cool- and i hate to point any one or two out, because this country is chock full of em- but places like The Paramount, the Grey Eagle, Tractor Tavern, Bijou Theater...yadda, yadda, yadda

2) Cadillac Sky travels often. What are the difficulties involving logistics when band members live in different cities?

well, most of em are obvious, mainly it just comes down to staying well ahead of things- just planning. Thankfully within the next few months four of the five of us will be living in and around the same city of Nashville-

3) At Merlefest last year you played with several other artists on the main stage. Is this an unrehearsed jam session or did you communicate\practice beforehand?

very unrehearsed...very...i think like 30 of us tried to play Monroe's Uncle Penn- I don't think any of the 30 played it the same....Bill's probably still spinning from it.

4) When playing at festivals such as Merlefest, do you find yourself examining the schedule to squeeze in seeing other artists and has that ever interrupted one of your performances - either you cut a set short in order to see another act or were late returning to begin a set?

No to the former and yes to the latter. We certainly try to see as many other great acts that are there as we can, cause other bands are a source of continual inspiration for us, but we love playing. We don't take any performance lightly- so, in truth- it's hard to watch other acts because until we've played our last show somewhere, we're thinking about how can we make the next stage show special.

5) I first heard Cadillac Sky at FloydFest 7 and at that performance it was mentioned that the band (or maybe some members) had just returned from France. How is the reception to bluegrass music in Europe?

Well, not that we are torch bearers for bluegrass but our music was received very well. The crowds were crazy fun and seemed to "get it"- and sometimes that means they just let it be what it is, decide whether they dig it or not and leave it at that.

6) And speaking of bluegrass, was there any particular reason members chose to pursue this genre instead of roots or Texas alt-country?

Well, I think as you hear our new record and see our live show- I think you'll witness that we are definitely not "pursuing" the genre of bluegrass. the bluegrass instrumentation that is a staple of our sound is basically just the canvass that we paint from- we try to be song-centric
and give each song what it deserves- we are slaves to the song not the genre... We are dead set on pursuing a sound that is all our own- might be a starry eyed search but we think it's worth attempting.

7) I see that the band has become an artist sponsor with Mocha Club. What does sponsorship entail and are there other charities or causes you are active with?

No this is our primary cause that we're involved in..we are excited about it because with Mocha Club gives our band and our fans on a nightly basis a chance to change a child's life. If folks want to jump in with us- for $7 a month they can do it. The money is funneled to an orphanage in Kitui, Kenya. Really cool thing to be involved in.

8) The band is very active with the Social Networking sites. Is responsibility for posting content designated to one individual or do all the band members contribute?

We all contribute- is "contribute the right word?" Not sure

9) In partnership with Dualtone Music the band is releasing Letters In the Deep this summer. How is this partnership differ from the traditional artist\label relationship?

It's certainly a new world order, but in the end we wanted to own our record most importantly- not hand it over to the grimy hands of big labels...Dualtone wanted to work with us and we wanted to have them on our team so we made it work. I can't tell you all the details- the book I'm working on, "The Music Business All Figured Out- 10 Steps to Guaranteed Success" hinges on that info...(it's just a working title for now, set for 2021 release)

10) I haven't heard any tracks from "Letters In the Deep", but a recent press release describes it as follows: "marks the metamorphosis of Cadillac Sky from a critically-acclaimed Bluegrass band to a band without boundaries". Can you elaborate?

I would prefer that you elaborate- you can check out two tracks on our Facebook or/and Myspace page - my frame of reference about this record is so clouded it's almost a useless opinion. Check it out- and decide for yourself.

11) And, if the new CD is not truly a bluegrass album, do you risk alienating fans that expect only that genre?

I think anybody who considers themselves a fan of C-Sky will have seen us somewhere play live over the past two years. God knows we've been running up and down the highway setting the circus down all over the map- so there's been amply opp to see us- and if after that they haven't been shaken from the tree- then they're probably in too deep already and can't get out.

Merlefest - Saturday

Saturday's performances was truly phenomenal; an amazing array of talent in one event. The day started with Bearfoot, followed by The Belleville Outfit, The Dixie Bee-Liners, Cadillac Sky, The Farewell Drifters, Missy Raines & The New Hip, Scythian, Spring Creek Bluegrass Band, Patrick Sweany, The Greencards, Ollabelle, Martha Scanlan, David Bromberg, Jim Lauderdale, Doug MacLeod, Jimmy "Duck" Holmes, The Belleville Outfit again, Doc Watson, Emmylou Harris, Sam Bush, and finally BeauSoleil. What a lineup and what a day.

FloydFest Day 3: Sunday

On Sunday, I started the last day of FloydFest intending to see Oneside’s final act of the weekend. However, technical difficulties delayed their set so I instead headed to the beer garden to watch The Speckers one last time. This trio really impressed me: the fiddles blazing and Mr. Specker stomping in rhythm. The last song I heard from them, as I spotted Oneside taking the stage, was an interesting song from the 1770’s. Yes, the 1770’s. Apparently Mr. Specker heard the lyrics from a French Canadian, who had a distant relative serve under Lafayette in Washington’s army. The song pays homage to General Washington and he created a score for “a top 40 song from the ages”. When the song ended, I returned to the Streamline Hill Holler stage as technicians verified all microphones and amps were working. Oneside started slowly this time, playing Josephine and Lisa – allowing the audience to build and get settled. They played Paradise earlier than usual, which was a big hit. The group behind me kept mentioning how good the song was during the entire set - to anyone who passed by. The band really started rockin’ with Got to Go, Last Radio, and Out of My Tree, and a cover of The Band’s Ophelia. By this time, the band and spectators had thrown their fatigue and hangover overboard and were singing, clapping, and dancing. By the time they closed with The Letter, they had nailed the set. It was great watching the band grab an audience and holding them throughout the show.

After saying what I thought were final goodbyes, I headed up the hill to the VA Folklife Workshop Porch to listen to couple songs by Cadillac Sky. Apparently the band just returned from a trip to France – playing a couple of festivals in that country. They also have a new CD, Gravity's Our Enemy, which I heard a few songs from. The band is scheduled for several festivals on the east coast that I hope to attend. They deserve a longer listen.
Crooked Still was performing on the Main stage, so I grabbed my first ice cream of the day and stood near the stage. They started with an Ollabelle Reed cover, "Undone In Sorrow", and then proceeded to play “Oxford Town” – which got the crowd dancing early. At this point in the show, Chris Hersch, Oneside’s Banjo player joined me and mentioned that he and Aoife O'Donovan had attended the same music school together, As a result he follows the band closely. And Ms. O'Donovan told me afterwards that there were over a dozen artists from that program performing at FloydFest. Chris also instructed me on Dr. Liszt’s distinct style on the banjo – something like most banjo players pluck with three fingers, but he uses four. Crooked Still continued with several songs from the new CD, Still Crooked: Captain, Captain; Pharaoh; and Oh, Agamemnon. It was nice having Chris around because he told me the background to songs such as Pharaoh, an old Georgia Seal Island song. My favorite song of the set was “Come On In My Kitchen”. They received a contribution from the Mill House ice cream engine when the engine popped – at times - in unison with the bass cello. They entire show can be summed how Chris described one song, “That was tight.”

At this point I decided to walk 10 minutes away to Villa Appalaccia Winery. The winery was selling their wines at the beer garden and was located in the neighboring property so, it was an opportunity not to miss. For those who didn’t taste their offerings in the beer garden, here they are.
I returned to the festival to catch Tony Trischka and Double Banjo Bluegrass. Crooked Still’s Dr. Gregory Liszt and Brittany Haas joined Trischka and his band on stage for 75 minutes of picking and fiddling. His previous CD, Double Banjo Bluegrass Spectacular, contains songs where he was accompanied on banjo by several other notables such as Béla Fleck, Bill Emerson, and Scott Vestal. Dr. Liszt took their place on stage and the ensemble played songs from this CD as well as his latest: Territory. Watching Trischka is a treat and 2007 was a good year for the performer. He was given an IBMA (International Bluegrass Music Association) award for Banjo Player of the Year 2007. Double Banjo Bluegrass Spectacular received IBMA awards for Recorded Event of the Year, Instrumental Album of the Year and a Grammy Nomination. Not bad. After playing professionally for over 35 years, he is also somewhat a bluegrass historian – probably the best around.

Soon it was time for Gospel Hour; basically this is how the The Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band had advertised their Sunday show. The set opened with only Reverend Peyton taking stage, explaining that the band was going to slow things down a bit and played a longer version of the soft part of “I Shall Not Be Moved”. At some point into the song, Breezy and Jayme entered and casually picked up their instruments. Then, on queue, the three exploded in chorus for the fast section of the song – and the tent erupted. "Slow things down", right. They did play most of the gospel tunes from The Gospel Album, but this is still dance music – a musical style I wouldn’t hear from our parish chorus. They played “Blow That Horn”, “Glory Glory Hallelujah”, “Let Your Light Shine”, and my favorite “Tell All The World John”, with Jayme pounding the pickle bucket. The Reverend also displayed his guitar prowess by instructing us how he creates a bass sound – since there’s no bass player in the trio. He plays the top two strings with his thumb and pointer finger, while simultaneously playing rhythm with the remaining fingers. He started out slow, and then slowly increased the tempo until both hands were flying in unison. Awesome. He also had a great segway into “Mama’s Fried Potatoes”, describing all the great food one group of attendees had given them over the weekend. They finished with “Two Bottles of Wine” as an encore, and then were invited back by the promoters for one last curtain call and song. What an act; look out for the main stage next year.
I took one last look into the Beer Garden and found singer songwriter William Walter playing with Tucker Rogers. I was able to catch one song – which shows that artists have the same problems as everyone else: "Love is Clinging Closer". I’m going to keep an eye on this artist, particularly since his band, William Walter & Co, won the 2008 FloydFest winner of the Emerging Artist Series. Congratulations. I waited around for The Avett Brothers, but after 20 minutes, I decided to call it a weekend. With a 5½-hour drive waiting – as well as dogs in the kennel – I couldn’t wait any longer. Too bad – it was a great weekend. On the walk to the shuttle, I ran into the Villers of Blacksnake Meadery, thanked them for yesterday's visit and headed home. The drive was remarkable painless. Accompanied by the new music from Crooked Still, Blind Corn Liquor Pickers, Oneside, and The Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band, I was on Interstate 66 in no time. I finished the trip listening to the The Gospel Album, twice – all the while mimicking Jayme on the pickle bucket. However, beware, listening to this album may lead you to lose control of your life (as my Dad would say), While singing and drumming, I didn’t notice the orange fuel light illuminated until I had pulled into my driveway. With perhaps some divine intervention, I had returned home safely. Glory Glory Hallelujah.