Lonesome River Band Releases New Album

By Timothy Yap Mar 19, 2016 06:18 AM EDT

Lonesome River Band had been established for nearly a decade when the band released its landmark album,Carrying the Tradition, in 1991. The critically acclaimed project ushered in a new era for Bluegrass by acknowledging tradition while introducing new elements that expanded the genre. Now, 25 years later, the award-winning band is set to break new ground once again with its latest release, Bridging the Tradition (Mountain Home Music Company).

Bridging the Tradition is both familiar and progressive, with each track receiving just the right treatment. Some arrangements include the addition of masterful session drummer, Tony Creasman, who adds percussion in the most tasteful way to complement the rhythmic pulse that is a hallmark of the LRB sound.

"This album is different than anything we've ever done," says multi-award winning banjo player, Sammy Shelor. "The songs are ones that we are really personally interested in doing. What we came up with has once again helped to recreate our sound. All the while, we are being true to ourselves as musicians."

Lonesome River Band continues to evolve in the ever-changing landscape of Bluegrass and Acoustic Country music. With Bridging the Tradition, the band once again delivers incredible, ground-breaking music that is rooted in the tradition it began decades ago.

Since its formation 34 years ago, Lonesome River Band continues its reputation as one of the most respected names in Bluegrass music. Five-time International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Banjo Player of the Year, and winner of the Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass, Sammy Shelor leads the group that is constantly breaking new ground in Acoustic music. With two stellar lead vocalists, Brandon Rickman (guitar) and newest member Jesse Smathers (mandolin), and the impressive talents of Mike Hartgrove (fiddle) and Barry Reed(bass), the band seamlessly comes together, performing the trademark sound that fans continue to embrace.