The Kitchen Dwellers and Fireside Collective brought fire to Union Craft Brewing on December 28, 2024, kicking off their New Year’s Run in style. Fireside warmed the  packed crowd with soulful bluegrass, while the Dwellers’ galaxy grass magic turned the brewery into a cosmic dance party. Don’t miss the final stops—this tour is one for the books! Tickets are still available for both nights at the Brooklyn Arts Center in Wilmington, NC. Get your body moving and start 2025 grooving with some galaxy grass jams!

In the bluegrass and Americana music world, certain names are quickly rising to the top, and Wyatt Ellis is undeniably one of them. Two years ago, there were hushed whispers of awe of this ‘new kid’  when he attended the DelFest Academy. Last year, in 2023, Ellis joined Billy Strings onstage as part of Doc Watson's 100th Birthday Tribute and then followed it up with appearances at MerleFest, joining Peter Rowan on stage and mixing it along with some of the legends of the mandolin at Mando Mania.  

This year, after the release of his debut album,  Happy Valley, Ellis continues to grow and emerge as a fan favorite on the summer music festival circuit. His performances at the genre's most prestigious festivals, MerleFest and Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival cement his status as a standout talent.

In April, at MerleFest in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, Ellis continued to impress with a performance that was both high-energy and deeply heartfelt. Known for its commitment to preserving and celebrating the legacy of Doc and Merle Watson, MerleFest is a festival where every note counts. Wyatt Ellis rose to the occasion with a set that honored the festival's roots while pushing the boundaries of the genre. His ability to connect with the audience was evident as he effortlessly navigated between fast-paced tunes and soulful ballads.

In June 2024, Ellis, along with his touring band, performed for the first time at Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee.

Earlier this month, Ellis continued to captivate the audiences in upstate New York at the Grey Fox Bluegrass Music Festival with his impeccable musicianship and stage presence. The festival, renowned for its eclectic lineup and vibrant atmosphere, provided the perfect backdrop for Ellis to showcase his unique blend of traditional bluegrass and modern influences. His set was a masterclass in both technical skill and emotional depth, leaving fans eagerly anticipating his next move.

Ellis has garnered the attention of his musical peers. It was only a few years ago that Sierra Hull began to mentor a young Wyatt Ellis, and he was embraced by the legends and more established artists and joined them on stage. This year, it seems like moths to a flame; other artists in the bluegrass community are drawn to Ellis and eagerly joining him on stage. This year, we have witnessed the mesmerizing and sizzling sit-ins he's brought to the stage throughout these two festivals. The list of those who have joined Ellis on stage at times seems too numerous to mention, as we have witnessed him perform both onstage and backstage with countless musicians. Just off the top of our heads, we recall memorable sit-ins by mighty musicians, including Peter Rowan, The Kruger Brothers, and Jim Lauderdale. 

What set Ellis apart at both festivals was not just his technical prowess but his ability to infuse every performance with genuine passion and creativity.  Whether through a virtuosic solo or a poignant lyric, Ellis demonstrated why he's quickly becoming a name to watch in the bluegrass community.

As the festival season continues, one thing is clear: Wyatt Ellis is not just participating in the bluegrass scene — he's shaping its future. Just a few weeks ago, the International Bluegrass Music Association (IMBA)  nominated Ellis for two awards, "Momentum Instrumentalist Artist" and "Best New Artist" - and we are sure this isn't the last time we'll see his name on one of those ballots.  

Wyatt Ellis will perform today, July 26th, at FloydFest 24 ~ Horizon.

• 3:00 pm -3:45 pm at the Oasis Stage
• 5:00 pm  - 6:00 pm Recording a session at the FloydFest Bus Stop 

If you are unable to attend his FloydFest performance, please check Wyatt Ellis's upcoming tour schedule.  As Ellis's musical prowess and popularity grows, so does his tour radius!  Take notice of Wyatt Ellis as he performs at just a few more festivals this summer, including The Newport Folk Festival, Bristol Rhythm & Roots, AMERICANAFEST, the International Bluegrass Music Festival, and Watermelon Pickers Fest just a little over 60 miles from Washington, DC, in Berryville, Virginia.

"The bottom line of the whole scene is simply stated: there is nothing in the world like a Grateful Dead concert–period. Never will be." This quotation from Jon Williams is even more true today than when he said it in 1974 in the Grateful Dead Movie. The uniqueness of a Dead show–or any Dead-related project–is steeped in a complex medley of American-born music, drawing from rock n' roll, jazz, bluegrass, gospel, fusion, and country and blended with a heavy dose of 1960s psychedelic energy. The band's catalog also contains hundreds of original songs and covers from which they build unique setlists each night. This impressive blend of musical showmanship is further embellished with deep exploratory improvisations, ensuring that every single Grateful Dead show is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for each audience and band member.

The fans of the Grateful Dead, also known as Deadheads, are also a significant part of what makes a Grateful Dead concert so special. This tight-knit community is a family of music lovers that has developed over the nearly 60-year history of the band. Their fanhood, often bordering on rabid fanaticism, is on full display at every show as they follow the Dead across the country, speaking to each other about Dead culture in an almost-secret language trying to figure out what songs could be played at the next show.

This year was no exception, as Bobby Weir, founding member and rhythm guitarist of the Dead, took the stage with his Wolf Bros and the Wolf Pack to close out the summer concert season with a sold-out show at Baltimore's Pier Six Pavilion on September 28, 2023. Bob Weir's guitar work is just as unique and rare as the band's music. While most rhythm guitarists occupy a quiet niche in bands, playing simple chord progressions to guide the singers and lead guitarist through the music, Bob has created his own playing style that few can emulate. His distinctive strumming is reminiscent of the left hand of an expert jazz pianist banging out chords during an intense saxophone solo instead of a rock n' roll band playing in an arena. Bob's particular style serves as the dynamic canvas on which the Grateful Dead's improvisational music is painted and functions as the perfect counterpoint for incredible solos by all of his band members. Composed of Don Was on upright bass, Jay Lane on drums, and Jeff Chimenti on keys, as well as a string and brass quintet known as the Wolf Pack, featuring Alex Kelly (cello), Brian Switzer (trumpet), Adam Theis (trombone), Mads Tolling (violin), and Sheldon Brown (tenor and alto saxophone, clarinet, bass clarinet, flute and bass flute), along with Barry Sless on pedal steel, Bobby's Wolf Bros and the Wolf Pack provide a rich sonic landscape to explore the Dead's extensive catalog.

Walking up to the venue through Shakedown Street–Deadhead's slang for the tailgate party in the parking lot before shows and a reference to one of the band’s most famous songs–it was clear it would be a memorable evening for those in attendance. The parking lot vibrated with fans' energy as they danced around in tie-dye, and vendors sold their homemade posters, stickers, and glass art. As the band started playing the first notes of "The Music Never Stopped," clumps of Deadheads gathered on the lawn and in the aisles began dancing–twirling and spinning in a distinctive hippie waltz that would not end until the final notes rang out. The opening song seamlessly segued into "Easy Answers" and back into "The Music Never Stopped." The first set continued with a cover of Bob Dylan's "Desolation Row" and "Me & My Uncle" that featured extensive soloing from Sless on pedal steel guitar that turned the tune into a country ballad, demonstrating the band's ability to seamlessly infuse country western and big band sounds into the Dead's music. 

Next, the band launched into a somber and slow version of "Even So," a staple of Bob Weir's solo shows. Alluding to the song's reference to "the wolfman at the door" and the band's name, Weir let out several long howls as the full moon hid behind the clouds hanging over Baltimore's Inner Harbor. Seamlessly transitioning again, the band continued with another Weir original, "October Queen" without taking a break. Bobby & Wolf Bros closed out the first set with the upbeat shuffle "Deal," which featured an exquisitely phrased pedal steel guitar solo. 

During the break, concertgoers were treated to a fireworks show launched from Camden Yards, celebrating the Baltimore Orioles winning the American League East Championship–a monumental moment for Orioles fans. This brief but incredible display drew cheers from the crowd for several minutes as they celebrated one of their favorite artists and the success of the local MLB team.

Bobby & Wolf Bros opened the second set with a vivacious violin solo during "The Winners," and the second set continued with a series of classic Grateful Dead songs, beginning with "Estimated Prophet," which featured incredible horn solos from the Wolf Pack, and then they transitioned into "New Speedway Boogie" and then to the classic segue of "China Cat Sunflower>I Know You Rider." The string and brass quintet provided potent punches of jazzy big band energy–expanding the potential for exploration in the Dead's music. The band continued with an incredible version of "The Wheel," which one fan claimed felt like a summer vacation with its reggae-inspired jam led by Jeff Chimenti's keyboard solo and the string and brass quintet's melodic riffs.

In contrast to the upbeat feel of the previous songs, Bobby mellowed the crowd with a poignant version of "Standing on the Moon," an incredible ballad written by the Dead's late Jerry Garcia and Robert Hunter. Then, the band closed out the concert with the entire "Terrapin Station Suite," a rare treat for Dead fans, as the band typically only played the first portion of the Suite. The string and brass quintet added a vibrant texture to the song's highly composed sections, intensifying the peak of one of the Dead's most epic songs, and Alex Kelly and Mads Tolling battled with dueling cello and violin solos.

As the final notes of the "Terrapin Station Suite" resonated through the air and the crowd erupted in applause, it became abundantly clear that this Wolf Bros concert was another chapter in the book detailing the enduring magic of the Grateful Dead's music and its ability to unite generations of fans. The rich tapestry of sounds, the seamless transitions between songs, the exceptional musicianship of Bobby & Wolf Bros, and the added brilliance of the Wolf Pack all combined to create a night that will forever be in the memories of those in attendance.

The 30th Hot August Music Festival, held on August 19, 2023, at the picturesque Oregon Ridge Park in Cockeysville, Maryland, was an exceptional day of music, sunshine, and camaraderie. Against the stunning backdrop of the park's rolling hills, attendees enjoyed performances that catered to different musical tastes and moods. With the temperature in the mid-80s, not a cloud in the sky, and a constant cooling breeze, Mother Nature must have conspired with the festival’s organizers to craft an impeccable setting for the occasion. 

One of the standout features of the festival was the family-friendly atmosphere. Attendees of all ages reveled in the enchanting melodies and captivating rhythms while relishing the delicious offerings from the food vendors scattered throughout the grounds. The aroma of various cuisines wafted through the air, offering a wide selection of food vendors. Union Craft Brewing's ice-cold craft beer provided a perfect respite from the summer heat, adding to the vibrant festival ambiance for those seeking refreshments.

The musical lineup was a tapestry of talent that catered to an eclectic audience at the main Hillside Stage and the smaller Meadow Stage. Natalie Brooke & The Infinity Tribe opened the day at the Hillside Stage with a blend of progressive funk rock and Natalie's signature keytar skills taking the performance to new heights, and Pigeons Playing Ping Pong's drummer Alex "Gator" Petropulos holding down the rhythm section. During the second set of the day and the Meadow Stage's opening set, the Jonathan Sloane Trio's mighty blues rock set continued the high energy while paying tribute to Hot August's origins as a blues festival.

Later in the day, local Baltimore legend Cris Jacobs set the Hillside Stage ablaze with his roots-infused performance. Those who enjoyed Cris' set should keep an eye out for his upcoming record—featuring contributions from Jerry Douglas, the Infamous Stringdusters, Sam Bush, Ashby Frank, Lee Ann Womack, Lindsey Lou, and Billy Strings. 

The day took a mellow and relaxing turn with Sunny War's intimate Meadow Stage set that tugged at heartstrings with her raw and emotional lyrics. Ripe then reignited the funk with their upbeat dance music at the Hillside Stage, igniting infectious energy with attendees dancing to the fiery horn section. 

Karina Rykman kept the funky dance jams going at the Meadow Stage by playing several songs off her newly released album Joyride—which Phish's Trey Anastasio produced. Karina's signature smile and dance moves were on display as she played thundering bass lines and her guitarist's—Adam November—distinctive synth looping style. Karina's danceable tunes and her ability to get a crowd grooving show why she was a crowd favorite and why she will be a staple of summer festivals for years.

Another crowd favorite of the day, Oteil & Friends, transformed the Hillside Stage with psychedelic energy, blending original compositions, Grateful Dead classics, and Allman Brothers Band hits. Oteil Burbridge, Steve Kimock, and Duane Betts traded melodic guitar and bass licks throughout the set, which included songs like "Every Hungry Woman," "Dreams," "Cats Down Under The Stars," "Dark Star," and "Mountain Jam." 

Daniel Donato's Cosmic Country was another crowd favorite of the day. Donato showcased his unique psychedelic chicken pickin' style and his band's improvisational prowess across a range of original tunes in a series of long exploratory jams. It was easy to see why this young Nashville-based musician is quickly rising through the ranks of the jam scene. 

Little Feat closed the 2023 Hot August Music Festival with their distinctive southern jam echoed through the hills. Keyboardist Bill Payne led the band in several of the band's classic hits, including "Fat Man in the Bathtub," "Dixie Chicken," and "Spanish Moon." As the final notes of Little Feat's set rang across Oregon Ridge Park, it was clear that the 30th edition of the festival will be remembered as a remarkable chapter in its storied history with jam legends, local favorites, and future stars of the jam scene providing a perfect sonic landscape to celebrate the day.

We are still basking in the afterglow of DelFest '14 held over Memorial Day Weekend just a few short weeks ago. We relish and rejoice in the opportunity to give out fresh and sincere DelBows to one another as we basked in a little bit of DelTopia beside the Potomac River beside the Allegany County Fairgrounds.

We are sure that you, like us, are already looking forward to DelFest '15 in 2023. Those of us who attended DelFest last month would love the opportunity to relive this magical weekend and the spectacular performances. One of the signs of a truly great music festival is the difficult choices we must make when deciding which performance to see over another. Such was DelFest, with so many wonderful acts overlapping or occurring simultaneously.

If you missed one such act, want to relive and re-experience a set at DelFest '14, or were unable to make it to DelFest but wish you were able to, we have great news! Concert streaming provider Mandolin has announced a "DelFest Rewind" concert series.

For four weeks, starting on June 29th, this service will be broadcasting four DelFest performances a week from DelFest '14. Each Wednesday and Thursday, this service will broadcast two performances.

Artists include The Del McCoury Band, The Travelin' McCourys, Railroad Earth, The Ghost of Paul Revere, Watchhouse, Della Mae, The Jerry Douglas Band, Leftover Salmon, Béla Fleck, Steve Poltz, Sam Bush, The California Honeydrops, Robert Earl Keen, Anders Osborne, Jackie Greene, Sierra Hull, and The Lil Smokies.

Schedule:

 Multiple ticketing options for the series are available, ranging from $15 to stream a single artist set to $140 to stream all 16 performances, with other options in between.

For those who attended this year's festival in person, be sure to check your inbox for an email from DelFest! In-person ticket buyers have access to an exclusive link that allows you to purchase the full series pass for just $35 (a $100+ discount)

You can find more details about DelFest Rewind here. 

To learn more about Mandolin, please see the following web resources:

• Webpage
• Facebook
• Instagram
• Twitter

It is hard to imagine that is has been a little over a week since The Outlaw Music Festival steamed into Merriweather Post Pavilion on September 24, 2021.  The crowd was treated to a spectacular evening of live music bringing celebration and musical bliss to one of the regions historic venues that was dormant during the pandemic.  

The festival featured musical guests Kathleen Edwards, Gov’t Mule, Nathaniel Rateliff and The Nightsweats, Sturgill Simpson, and the one and only red headed stranger himself, Willie Nelson 

Nathan Payne was on hand to help capture this night of unforgettable musical moments.