Alright folks, it's time for another week of bluegrass goodness across the country. As always, there's no shortage of top-notch talent hitting the stage, so let's dive right in.
If you're anywhere near Lancaster, PA on Monday, you won't want to miss The Steel Wheels at the West Art venue. These guys have been at the forefront of the Americana scene for years, blending bluegrass, folk, and a touch of indie rock. Their harmonies are downright hypnotic, and their ability to shift seamlessly between driving anthems and delicate ballads is truly something to behold.
Over in the UK, we've got a couple of shows worth checking out. First up, Ruth Eliza is playing the Bell Inn in Bath on Monday. I caught her set at the Glastonbury Festival last year, and let me tell you, this woman can flat-out sing. Her take on traditional folk tunes is both reverent and refreshingly modern. Then on Tuesday, she's at the Fleece Inn in Bretforton, which is a beautiful old National Trust property — perfect setting for her soulful sound.
Tuesday Takeover
Tuesdays are always packed, and this week is no exception. High Country Hustle is bringing their high-energy bluegrass to Silver Moon Brewing in Bend, OR. These guys have been tearing it up on the festival circuit, and their live shows are not to be missed. If you're a fan of that driving, almost jam-band style of bluegrass, this is your ticket.
Over in Grass Valley, CA, Old Crow Medicine Show is hitting the stage at The Center for the Arts. Ketch Secor and the gang have been reinventing the old-time sound for years, and their shows are always a raucous good time. I'm particularly excited to hear them tackle some of the material from their latest album, Paint This Town — that title track is an absolute barn-burner.
Meanwhile, Jerry Douglas is taking the stage at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville, AL. If you're not familiar with Jerry, he's one of the most influential dobro players of the last few decades, having worked with everyone from Alison Krauss to Eric Clapton. His solo work is a masterclass in tone and technique, so this is a can't-miss show for any serious bluegrass fan.
Staying in the Southeast, Alison Krauss & Union Station are playing the Von Braun Center in Huntsville as well. Alison's crystalline vocals and the band's impeccable musicianship make for a truly transcendent live experience. If you haven't seen them before, this is the perfect opportunity to witness bluegrass royalty in action.
More Tuesday Highlights
Out in Arvada, CO, Second Gear is hitting the stage at The Bluegrass Lounge in Olde Town. These guys have been tearing up the Colorado bluegrass scene for years, and their shows are always a high-energy good time. Keep an ear out for their killer rendition of "Shady Grove" — it'll make the hair on the back of your neck stand up.
Meanwhile, Rhonda Vincent is bringing her award-winning vocals to the Amish Country Theater in Millersburg, OH. Rhonda is one of the most powerful singers in bluegrass, and her shows are always a master class in technique and emotion. If you haven't heard her latest album, Kicking up Dust, do yourself a favor and give it a listen before the show.
Over in Nashville, Sister Sadie is taking the stage at the Grand Ole Opry. This all-star female quintet has been making waves in the bluegrass world, blending traditional sounds with a modern edge. Their harmonies are absolutely stunning, and their stage presence is second to none. If you're in the area, this is a can't-miss show.
Shifting gears, The Brothers Comatose are playing Bluegrass Island Nights in Manteo, NC. These San Francisco-based pickers have been bringing their unique brand of West Coast bluegrass to stages across the country, and their live shows are always a hoot. Expect plenty of high-energy picking, witty banter, and a few surprises thrown in for good measure.
And finally, Molly Tuttle is hitting the stage at the Center for the Arts in Grass Valley, CA. Molly is one of the most exciting young talents in bluegrass, with a guitar technique that'll make your jaw drop. Her songwriting is equally impressive, blending traditional influences with a contemporary sensibility. If you haven't caught her live yet, this is your chance.
Weekend Highlights
Looking ahead to the weekend, there are a few can't-miss events on the calendar. First up, the Grascals are playing the Little Roy and Lizzy Music Festival in Lincolnton, GA. These guys have been staples of the bluegrass scene for years, and their shows are always a blast. Expect plenty of virtuosic picking, tight harmonies, and a healthy dose of good ol' Southern charm.
Over in Woodford, VA, the Lonesome River Band is headlining Mr. B's Bluegrass Festival 2026. These guys have been pushing the boundaries of bluegrass for decades, blending traditional sounds with a modern sensibility. Their latest album, Mayhayley's House, is a real standout, so I'm excited to hear how they translate those tunes to the stage.
And speaking of the Little Roy and Lizzy Music Festival, The Kody Norris Show is also on the bill. Kody and his band have been tearing up the festival circuit with their high-energy, old-time-inspired sound. If you're a fan of that raw, unvarnished bluegrass vibe, this is a set you won't want to miss.
Finally, down in Chickamauga, GA, Fast Track is playing the Boxcar Pinion Memorial Bluegrass Festival 2026. These guys are one of the hottest young bands in bluegrass right now, with a sound that blends traditional influences with a contemporary edge. Their last album, Chasing the Sun, was a real standout, so I'm eager to see how they translate those tunes to the live setting.
And last but not least, Southern Legacy is hitting the stage at Mr. B's Bluegrass Festival in Woodford, VA. This family band has been making waves in the bluegrass world with their tight harmonies and impeccable musicianship. Their latest record, Echoes of the Past, is a real gem, so I'm excited to hear how they bring those tunes to life on stage.
Whew, that's a whole lot of bluegrass goodness to take in! As always, be sure to check out the full listings on GrassGigs.com for even more can't-miss shows in your area. And if you're ever in need of a like-minded picker to jam with, you know where to find me.