Soupless, a duo from Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, arrived on the alternative rock scene with their album The Outside - an exploration of overlapping journeys and beginnings and endings. Known for blending time-tested sounds of the genre with their own unique approach, this album tests the boundaries of Soupless’s chill yet eclectic take on alternative rock.

The Outside is not only a metaphor for their debut into the scene, but it’s a way to conceptualize leaving their dorm-room-turned-recording-studio. The duo, guitarist and producer Matthew Aasen and vocalist Aiden Rinaldo, became roommates during their studies at Belmont University in Nashville.

Of the album, Rinaldo reflected on its meaning to Soupless and the audience they hope to reach. “The album came together almost by accident… I think it could make a big splash if it falls into the right hands or the right circles that would really engage with it and try to understand it.”

In many ways, their debut also marks the end of a journey and the beginning of a new one. Though their dorm room recording studio era has come to an end, their 10-song album marks the beginning to a consistent cycle of rebirth and rediscovery as musicians. First released as a single, ‘In The Mirror’ is a story that tells itself– an inner battle, the big moments and the small ones, and an ever-present tumble with fate’s will. A cymbal crash represents the breaking glass of that reflection and a turn towards something new, something Asen and Rinaldo accomplish wholeheartedly in this release.

When asked about their favorite songs on the album, ‘In The Mirror’ and ‘Tick On’ were tied for first. “Both have the strength of tackling abstract but relevant topics, but have different approaches,” said Rinaldo. “In The Mirror’s climax with the glass shattering right in the middle of the album is certainly there for a reason, and is super memorable. Tick On has an awesome guitar solo in the end and has a trippier vibe, tackling the constructs of time lyrically and with the instruments echoing similar sentiments.”

There is no doubt that this album digs a little deeper than previous EPs. Every song has that feeling that there’s more than meets the ear on first listen– whether it’s the lyrics, the mood of the instruments, or the production. Soupless has used their EP Polly’s and single releases to explore their sound from their groovy and bluesy foundations to create their debut album. The Outside gives a deeper dive into the psychedelic and dreamy guitar and lyrics, moving between Soupless’s classic alternative sound and experimenting further with heavier, more demanding sonic themes.

Aasen described the songs he felt were the biggest risks. “K9 and Keep On Going were risks out of our comfort zone in quite opposing ways. K9 features some more modern production elements, including a big synth bass that strays a bit from our typical palette. There’s also some prominent synth chords that were different from anything in songs we’ve put out in the past. Keep On Going took an acoustic vibe, with acoustic instruments serving as the foundation,” he said. “We leaned into an unpolished, rougher sound on this one that is very apparent in the vocals. The choices we made when creating these songs ultimately were to serve the song.”

Soupless primarily performs in their local Nashville scene, though Aasen hails from the DMV. Recently, the band performed at the Belmont University Rock Showcase near Nashville, an event that provides both student performers and behind-the-scenes leaders a chance to show off their skills both on and off stage while boasting some impressive alums– including Judah & The Lion, COIN, Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line, and Brad Paisley. Soupless emerged from the showcase as the overall winner, giving them the chance to play and compete at the Best of the Best Showcase in April 2026.

We hope you enjoy the album as much as we did.  We look forward to Soupless venturing further beyond Nashville, and especially look forward to greeting Aasen back to the DMV as a returning hometown hero.

Nearly a decade after their inception, Humbalaya has crafted their most polished and evocative work yet with Fully Furnished. The Washington, D.C.-based band, known for their signature blend of funk, rock, and jazz-fusion, delivers an album that feels like an inviting living room—equal parts comfortable and electric, offering a listening experience that’s as dynamic as their live shows. 

From Union Stage to Pearl Street Warehouse and beyond, Humbalaya has built a reputation as one of the region’s most dynamic live acts, sharing stages with the likes of Thumpasaurus and Will Wood and the Tapeworms. The band’s current lineup is a powerhouse ensemble, featuring Cybele Mayes-Osterman on vocals, Connor Milam on percussion, Pete Meyers on drums, Jack Cantili on bass, Teddy Vossler on guitar, Michael Schwartz on tenor sax, and Brandon Mediate on keyboards. While many of these songs have graced DMV venues over the past two years, Fully Furnished is the first time fans will experience them with Cybele’s jazzy, magnetic vocals at the forefront of Humbalaya’s recorded music—a change that elevates their sound to new heights. As the band’s keyboardist and primary songwriter Brandon Mediate puts it, “The vocals tend to be the first thing people notice, and we’re extremely lucky to have Cybele leading us.”

The album opens with “Cold Cut,” a slinky groove that intertwines Cybele’s jazzy vocals with a harmonious synth and sax melody. Teddy Vossler’s guitar solo pairs perfectly with Brandon’s electric piano, making it a standout track. “The Escape” is an instrumental odyssey and one of the band’s proudest moments, featuring a soaring saxophone melody from Michael Schwartz, intricate piano underpinnings, a punchy guitar solo, and exceptional bongo work from Connor Milam. According to Brandon, “Recording this song was a bit more daunting than the others, but it was both playful and organized—both to the right degree.”

“Right Back At It” brings a funky, upbeat energy with Cybele’s sassy vocal stylings front and center, while “Roulette”, the album’s second single, begins with a tension-building instrumental riff that releases into Cybele’s ethereal vocals. The soulful sax solo and climactic melodic ending make this track a must-listen. “Sleep Less,” the album’s first single, showcases the band’s soulful side with a jazzy shuffle feel and another standout sax solo from Michael. “Static Memory” highlights Connor’s driving percussion and Teddy’s funky, wah-wah-laden guitar riffs. Cybele’s powerful vocals shine once again, while Brandon’s virtuosic synth solo takes the track to dazzling heights.

The album closes with “Time Ain’t on My Side,” a swinging ballad that expertly balances the interplay between jazzy-funk rock instrumentals and Cybele’s distinct vocal style. The song’s peaking crescendos, guided by Brandon’s driving piano solo, evoke the emotional heights of a Tedeschi Trucks Band jam session.

Recorded at The Classroom in Hyattsville, MD, and mixed by Ananth Batni and mastered by Brady O’Keefe, Fully Furnished is a testament to Humbalaya’s evolution since their 2015 beginnings at the University of Maryland. With members Brandon, Jack, and Connor anchoring the band through lineup changes, this release solidifies their place in the DMV music scene. 

Six Foot Blonde, the indie rock band known for their heartfelt lyrics and eclectic sound, has returned with their debut album, Ask Me How I Am. True to their signature style, the album navigates through a range of emotions and musical landscapes, but it also marks a significant evolution in their artistry.

Lyrically, Ask Me How I Am delves into themes of transformation and self-discovery. The band’s characteristic introspection is paired with broader existential reflections, creating a rich tapestry of emotion and thought. In an interview, lead singer Julia Rusyniak noted, “Ask Me How I Am, our debut album, is the product of years of growth between the six of us and the result of four months in the studio. Some of these songs we've played live for over a year. It's been so cool to see fans react to hearing them recorded for the first time!”

Six Foot Blonde consists of Julia Rusyniak as lead singer, Elliott Obermaier playing guitar, Brian Healey on drums, Zach Patrick playing guitar, Dom Heyob playing bass and vocals, and John Alex Rusyniak on the keys. 

To give a little back story on how Six Foot Blonde came to be, we asked how this journey started for them, “We all met in a music club at Indiana University where Elliott, our guitar player, started. Around 2021, Six Foot Blonde started playing local bars in Bloomington. We've come a long way from those days, but they definitely made us who we are now. In that first year and a half, we really learned how to become entertainers.”

They continue, “Before the fall of 2022, the band felt more like an experiment, a great college experience that would come to a natural end. But the six of us sat down with each other and decided that there was something special here that we didn't want to be done with. We really wanted to put all of our effort into making it succeed. Since that point, we've grown a lot together, and we've really become a family. At the start of 2023, we started expanding our reach as a live band, playing regionally and building a broader community in the Midwest. Now, we've just gotten off our first national headlining tour, playing 22 cities across the East Coast and Midwest. Throughout all that, we've worked constantly on our live show and have never stopped writing.” 

When asked about their debut album, they note, “It's been a mixture of catharsis and excitement. We've wanted to be able to share these songs for so long. It's exciting to finally hear everyone's responses and to be given the chance to share something so meaningful to us.”

There is no doubt that this album is special and meaningful. Right from the opening track, “Pareidolia,” it’s clear that Six Foot Blonde has embraced a richer, more textured production. The lush arrangements give the album a cinematic quality that enhances the emotional depth of the music. 

The songwriting on Ask Me How I Am continues the band's tradition of introspective and poignant lyrics. However, this album ventures into more ambitious territory. Tracks like “Hard Feelings!” and “Ripe” explore existential themes and the search for meaning in a chaotic world, all while maintaining the band’s signature lyrical vulnerability. The songwriting feels more mature and contemplative, with each song offering a nuanced reflection on personal and collective struggles.

Singers in the band Julia Rusyniak and Dom Heyob deliver their most compelling vocals to date. Julia’s voice, often described as a blend of warmth and fragility, shines on tracks like “Landgirl” and “Refuge” There’s a newfound confidence in her delivery that enhances the emotional weight of the lyrics. The band's arrangements are tighter than ever, adding layers of richness to the overall sound.

When asked about their collective favorite song on the album, they responded, “One that keeps coming up in conversation is “Refuge”. It is the real turning point of the album, and we all really love it compositionally. Julia's lyrics paint such a stark image and we feel that it represents our voices really well, both as individual players and as a band.”  We, at DC Music Review, couldn’t agree more. 

While the entire album is worth a listen, a few tracks stand out particularly. “Blackout” is a sprawling, epic track with a stirring crescendo that showcases the band’s ability to build tension and release it in a way that’s both powerful and cathartic. We also have to mention again, “Ripe” as we all here at DC Music Review are simply obsessed with the song’s sound. 

Ask Me How I Am is a strikingly ambitious album that reflects Six Foot Blonde’s artistic evolution. The blend of rich production, profound lyrical themes, and dynamic performances make it a compelling listen from start to finish. The album successfully balances the band’s established indie roots with new, adventurous elements, offering both long-time fans and new listeners a fresh perspective on their music.

Six Foot Blonde, once relatively unknown outside their home region, now has a strong national headlining tour under their belt. On top of winning a legion of fans nationwide, they have a brilliant new album to punctuate their presence on the national scene.  With a band with this much energy and so many fans to win over, please make sure to check their webpage and links below to look for upcoming tours.

Addie Levy is an undeniable talent in the world of bluegrass. Her mastery of her craft is evident in every note she plays and every word she sings. Levy’s versatility shines through, making her a standout artist in a genre that thrives on tradition and innovation.

We had the privilege of catching up with Addie Levy just before the release of her self-titled debut album, Addie Levy, which dropped on July 25th. This album marks a significant milestone in her career and is highly anticipated by fans and critics alike. In our exclusive interview, we get a firsthand look at the journey that led to this remarkable accomplishment. Addie shares insights into her creative process, the challenges she faced, and the inspiration behind her music.

“I’ve been playing in bluegrass bands since I was ten years old, traveling all over the East Coast playing mandolin. I moved to Nashville last year to start working as a hired gun musician for other bands like The Brothers Comatose and Zandi Holup. As I’ve worked for others, I started to work on my own music as well, and I started my band Addie Levy and the Avalanche.”

Her most recent travels were to Check, Virginia, for one of our favorite festivals, FloydFest. This year was a special one for Levy. She’s been working at FloydFest as a fan since 2019, but the feeling of being on the stage is like no other. As she states to us, “Bluegrass is a family, and I appreciate everything they have done for me and to me. I think the importance of instrumentalism in bluegrass helped me hone my craft as a young girl and continue to grow through it.”

One of the most captivating aspects of Levy's artistry is her voice. It has a unique ability to resonate deeply, echoing in your ears long after the music has stopped. This vocal quality, combined with her instrumental prowess, creates a rich, immersive musical experience that is both refreshing and authentic. With all the amazing singing on her album, we had to ask which song on the album was her favorite. 

“Each one is so personal to me. Lies is a personal favorite though. I wrote it through a major point of change in my life and this helped to process everything going on. Each song is a reflection of my past two years in music so the album truly is a look into my life.“

The evolution of bluegrass music, particularly the way it's being reshaped by talented women like Levy, is a phenomenon that deserves celebration. It's an exciting time to witness such a transformative period in music, where traditional forms are being revitalized with new energy and innovation. She states how she has learned a lot during her travels for music, “I have learned so much from others, especially on the road. Whether it’s the best way to fly with my gear or to productively practice for other folks' shows. One of the best things I’ve learned through all this is that building relationships and fostering them is key! It’s important to love those around you. Who knows when a door may open because someone sees you commented on their Facebook post showing support?”

Addie Levy is a prime example of this wave of change. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to blend traditional bluegrass elements with her personal touch exemplify the exciting future of the genre. At DC Music Review, we are thrilled to see how her career unfolds following the release of this album. Her talent is undeniable, and we are eagerly anticipating more singles and albums from her in the future. Addie Levy is a rising star in the music industry, and it's clear that she is destined for great things. We're ready to follow her journey and support her as she continues to make her mark in the world of bluegrass.

Listen to her new album below - we know you are going to fall in love with it as much as we have.

Misner & Smith's latest album All is Song is full of masterful musicianship with threads of harmony, melody, and thoughtfulness. From the opening chords to the final notes, this duo takes listeners on a soul-stirring journey through their musical landscape, inviting them to immerse themselves in the depth of their artistry.

With their impeccable vocal blend and deft instrumentation, Sam Misner and Megan Smith create an enchanting sonic atmosphere that is both intimate and expansive. Each track on the album is a gem, shining with lyrical poetry and heartfelt emotion.

The debut single from their album, "Anthem," released this February, stirred up tremendous anticipation among fans, ourselves included. We firmly believe that this single set a remarkable precedent for the excellence to come on the rest of their album. Just last week, when the complete album was released, we finally got to experience the cohesive masterpiece that is the rest of the album. It had us dancing our happiest dances to the tunes of their beautiful songs.

One of the standout features of this album is the duo's ability to seamlessly blend folk, Americana, and acoustic rock influences into a cohesive and captivating sound. Songs like "Deep as the Water" and "Rising of the Moon" showcase Misner & Smith's knack for crafting melodies that linger in the soul long after the music has ended.

But it's not just the music itself that makes this album shine, it's also the depth of the storytelling. Misner & Smith have a gift for painting vivid portraits with their lyrics, inviting listeners into worlds both familiar and fantastical. Whether exploring themes of love, loss, or the human condition, each song feels like a deep conversation between the artists and their audience.

Moreover, the production quality of the album is top-notch, allowing every nuance of Misner & Smith's performance to shine through. From the warm tones of acoustic guitars to the subtle harmonies that dance delicately above the melodies, every element is perfectly balanced to create a listening experience that is truly immersive.

Misner & Smith's latest album is proof of how the power of music touches the soul. With its rich harmonies, evocative lyrics, and masterful instrumentation, this album is sure to resonate with listeners of all backgrounds. It's a journey worth taking and one that will leave a lasting impression long after the final notes have faded away.

Cris Jacobs' latest album, One of These Days, is a journey through the roots of bluegrass music, blending elements of blues and folk into a captivating auditory journey. With this album, Jacobs showcases his remarkable songwriting skills, soulful vocals, and masterful guitar work, cementing his status as one of the most compelling voices in Americana. We are so glad he is back with his first album in five years as it was exactly what we needed in 2024. 

Jacobs’ approached the creation of One of These Days with a clear vision and a commitment to authenticity. Drawing from his deep well of musical influences, Jacobs set out to create an album that honored the rich tradition of American music while also pushing the boundaries of the genre. With a focus on storytelling and emotional honesty, Jacobs crafted each song with care, drawing inspiration from his own life experiences as well as the world around him. Collaborating with a talented group of musicians, including Billy Strings, Lindsay Lou, Sam Bush, Lee Ann Womack and the McCrary Sisters, Jacobs ensured that each track on the album was infused with the perfect energy and emotion.

Working closely with producer Jerry Douglas, Jacobs brought his vision to life, creating an album that is both timeless and contemporary. His collaboration with The Infamous Stringdusters as his backbone in the album brings it all home. From the foot-stomping energy of the title track to the haunting beauty of "Everybody’s Lost," "One of These Days" is a testament to Jacobs' skill as a songwriter, musician, and storyteller.

The album opens with the track "Heavy Water," a foot-stomping anthem that immediately grabs your attention and makes you want to start dancing. Jacobs' vocals are perfectly complemented by the infectious groove laid down by the band, creating a sound that is both timeless and fresh. It's an irresistible introduction to the album and sets the tone for what's to come. Another highlight of the album is "Poor Davey," a ballad that showcases Jacobs' soulful voice and impeccable guitar work. This ballad features Billy Strings' virtuosic guitar picking dancing around Jacobs' vocals while Strings shares backing vocals during the chorus.  The song's arrangement allows Jacobs' vocals to take center stage, and the result is nothing short of mesmerizing. It's a song that stays with you long after it's over, haunting your thoughts like a long-lost memory.

It's difficult not to want to highlight every song on this album. Each track on "One of These Days" is truly remarkable and special. Listening to this album feels like coming home after a long journey away. The featured musicians bring the perfect energy to each song, and Cris Jacobs consistently delivers with his soulful voice, guiding us home with every track.

(Cover Photo Credit: Joshua Black Wilkins)

Liam Purcell & Cane Mill Road's latest album, "Yellow Line," offers a captivating exploration of traditional bluegrass infused with the influences drawn from their experiences on the road, reflecting their modern lives. This collection not only showcases the group's exceptional musicianship but also their innovative approach to the genre.

Each member of this band possesses the remarkable ability to captivate any audience. Leading the charge on vocals and mandolin is Liam, whose talent is matched by the extraordinary skills of his bandmates. The rest of Cane Mill Road comprises Rob McCormac on guitar, Colton Kerchner on banjo, Ella Jordan on fiddle, and Jacob Smith on bass. Together, they form a powerhouse ensemble capable of crafting an album that is nothing short of extraordinary.

As the opening notes of "Yellow Line" fill the air, listeners embark on a musical journey that seamlessly merges nostalgia with contemporary flair. The ensemble's masterful blend of banjo, fiddle, guitar, bass, and mandolin crafts a dynamic sound, simultaneously evoking both foot-stomping energy and deep soulfulness.

Throughout the album, Liam Purcell's vocals stand out, soaring above the instrumentation with a passion that resonates deeply. His performances draw listeners into each song, holding them captive from start to finish. Purcell's delivery imbues the music with an authenticity that is utterly captivating, inviting listeners to connect with the emotions woven into every lyric.

Moreover, "Yellow Line" isn't just a tribute to tradition; it's a testament to the band's fearless experimentation within the bluegrass realm. Tracks like "No More" (composed by Jacob Smith) and “Somerville” (composed by Rob McCormac) are wonderful tracks to note and a couple of our favorites to listen to here at DC Music Review. 

In essence, "Yellow Line" is more than just an album—it's a testament to Liam Purcell and Cane Mill Road's dedication to pushing the boundaries of bluegrass music. With its infectious melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and innovative arrangements, "Yellow Line" promises to leave a lasting impression on both seasoned bluegrass enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

We highly encourage you to explore Liam Purcell and Cane Mill Road's latest album and experience the joy it brings, just as it has enthralled us. For enthusiasts of traditional bluegrass eager to witness the incredible contributions of the new generation, this album is a perfect way to get you introduced. 

This band has an active and ambitious tour schedule.  Be sure to check their tour page or follow them on Bandsintown.

In the delicate balance between nostalgia and exploration, Tyler Ramsey unveils his latest project, New Lost Ages. Ramsey crafts an album that is both introspective and expansive, inviting listeners into a dreamlike realm where time seems to slow with each strum of the guitar. 

The former lead guitarist from Band of Horses, made a conscious shift away from mainstream stages in 2017, choosing to embrace a simpler and slower lifestyle in Western North Carolina. This profound change has not only allowed him to reconnect with his fans but has also propelled him into a larger creative space deep into the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 

The new album's palette is rich and refined, with Ramsey's intricate fingerstyle guitar work serving as the guiding force. Lyrically, the album delves into themes of introspection, reflection, and the inexorable passage of time. Each track unfolds like a chapter in a novel, with melodies that ebb and flow, carrying the audience through peaks and valleys of what life can feel like sometimes.

Ramsey weaves honest narratives into his songs, capturing the very essence of life as we know it. He stated about the album, "I try to write songs that I believe every word of. I don't want to ever dance around something or have to sing lyrics that don't feel like the truth to me." The authenticity in Ramsey's songwriting resonates deeply, creating a profound connection that convinces us of the truth embedded in his lyrics.

The title track, "New Lost Ages," showcases Ramsey's ability to evoke profound emotions through his music, creating an immersive experience that resonates long after the final note fades away. The raw lyrics, "Do you think there'll be a world to live in when these kids have kids? And would they want to live together in this world we've built?" raise questions that prompt us to ponder the sustainability and quality of life within our present surroundings. They encourage a closer examination of the lyrics, urging us to delve into the underlying messages

.Leading up to the album release, Ramsey released "These Ghosts," which carries simplicity in its lyrics that merges the specters of our past with the grim of the present. The track seamlessly blends the intimate narrative style of folk with the energetic pulse of rock, creating a fusion of two genres we all love. Accompanying the release of "These Ghosts," Ramsey unveiled a music video that elevates the song into visual artistry. The video, skillfully directed and filmed by the talented Parker J Pfister, serves as a captivating visual counterpart to the haunting melodies. 

Upon thorough listening to the album multiple times, it becomes evident that two tracks shine particularly bright, aside from the previously released singles. "We Were A Small Town" and "Poisonous Summer" emerge as standout pieces, each offering its own unique beauty and charm. Despite their contrasting styles, both songs captivate with their distinct allure and emotional resonance.

Ramsey's masterful blend of indie-folk and rock influences creates an audio landscape that resonates with authenticity and emotional depth. With "New Lost Ages," Ramsey not only invites us to immerse ourselves in his world of music but also prompts us to reflect on the timeless themes of life. It's an album that lingers in the mind long after the final chord fades, leaving a profound impression on the listener's heart and soul.

For those who cherish music that echoes deeply within, urging contemplation on the intricacies of existence, we wholeheartedly endorse this album.

Fortunately for those of us in the DMV, the opportunity awaits to witness Tyler Ramsey live on February 20th at Pearl Street Warehouse, where his songs will be brought to life by the man himself. 

Do you prefer another streaming platform?  Click here to see all other streaming and purchasing options.

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

• Webpage
• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube
• TIDAL
• Spotify
• Soundcloud

In the heart of East Tennessee, on a farm at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, young mandolinist Wyatt Ellis began conducting an Appalachian symphony in his ten-year-old imagination. The result is a collection of enduring melodies poised to capture the attention of a new generation of bluegrass fans.

Wyatt’s first album, Happy Valley, debuted on February 2nd, and we had the opportunity to experience this star-studded album, alongside the privilege of talking with Wyatt about his journey from imagination into reality.

From trading tunes with legends over Zoom during quarantine to making a mark at festivals like MerleFest, Wyatt's narrative is one of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering love for the soul-stirring sounds of bluegrass music.

In this interview, Wyatt shares insight into his creative process, the invaluable experiences gained from performing with icons, and the transformative moments that have shaped his musical identity. His interactions with iconic figures like David McLaughlin and Christopher Henry highlight the supportive nature of the bluegrass community.

Wyatt states, “At the beginning of the pandemic, I started doing a Monroe-style mandolin workshop on Zoom with Christopher Henry and David McLaughlin. David was very encouraging right from the start. According to McLaughlin, “Working with Wyatt is like training a racehorse.” Through interacting with David, I discovered my favorite band of all time, the Johnson Mountain Boys. They are one band whose style inspires me more than any other.”

Wyatt draws that inspiration from the iconic Johnson Mountain Boys for his track "Johnson Mountain Blues" on Happy Valley, with the added honor of featuring David on the collaboration.

The significance of collaborating with his musical heroes holds great importance for Wyatt. Immersing himself in music has provided him with a collaborative melange of an album, featuring artists such as Sierra Hull, Marty Stuart, Jake Workman, Dominik Leslie, Jason Carter, and many more.  We asked how his creative process worked while writing these songs with his mentors and heroes.

“A lot of times, like on the song 'Grassy Cove', I was going down the road, kind of noodling in my mind, and this tune came to me. So I brought it to Sierra, during our Tennessee Folklife Apprenticeship and we worked on it together to make it even better.   The track 'Two Rivers Waltz' was written with Danny Roberts of The Grascals. We would get on Skype every week during the shutdown, and sometimes we wouldn't even talk much; we’d just get into creating tunes back and forth with our mandolins. We’ve come up with about 15 or 20 tunes from those sessions. Danny was one of the first ones to encourage me with creativity and not really say there were any rules to be followed. Once I started creating so freely with Danny, I began writing tunes all the time. I wrote over 100 instrumentals when I was twelve.”

The no-rules approach holds significant importance as one develops their own musical style. Wyatt says, “For me, Quarantine was a time to learn and create. We live on a rural farm with no neighbors. I’m not the kind of guy who wants to sit and watch TV or play video games, so with all the extra time and a brand new mandolin, my musical journey began.”

Embracing creativity as a boundless realm has become second nature to Wyatt. Arranging the tunes of Happy Valley was a collaborative journey with multi-instrumentalist Justin Moses, who not only played various instruments on the album but also took on the role of its producer.  “Justin really made it all come together better than I could have ever imagined. He is so knowledgeable about bluegrass and especially recording. He was very encouraging and patient. He played so many instruments. With Justin leading the way, it was easy to get everyone on the same page.”

The excitement for Wyatt’s debut album release and his upcoming performance at the Grand Ole Opry is palpable and reflects the hard work and dedication he has put into his craft. It's also impressive to see his growth as a musician, from initially learning the mandolin to now singing confidently on stage.  We asked him what skills he has gained in the last couple of years that helped him perform effectively as a musician.

“Once I got involved in the bluegrass community, I quickly realized that I needed to start singing. It’s now a key part of my journey to perform on stage. When I first started singing, I was hesitant to perform in front of anyone, but now I don’t even think twice; I just get up there and sing the high-lonesome sound. I knew that if I was going to perform at the Opry, I had to sing like so many of my heroes had before me. So I took that chance and went up there and did it. The crowd wasn’t expecting it, and I received a wildly energetic standing ovation.”

In November 2023, Wyatt achieved a historic milestone with his debut as an artist at the Grand Ole Opry, and he considers it one of the most unforgettable performances of his life. Alongside this momentous occasion, he fondly reflects on the opportunities he had to share the stage with Billy Strings at Doc Watson's 100th Birthday Celebration and to kick off “Walls of Time” with bluegrass legend Peter Rowan at his induction into the Bluegrass Hall of Fame.

“Getting to play with Billy was something I’d always dreamed about. He’s always been one of my heroes. He and I connected on Instagram, and I ended up playing with him at Doc’s 100th Birthday celebration. It blew my mind to walk up on a stage in front of 15,000 people. We played 'Watson’s Blues' and 'Soldier's Joy' just like Doc and Bill did so many years ago.”

In Wyatt's world, the journey is as important as the destination, and the notes he plays harmonize instinctively with the echoes of those who came before him. He dedicated his album to none other than his mentor, Bobby Osborne. Wyatt received tutoring from the bluegrass legend during a two-year scholarship to the Kentucky School of Bluegrass. Wyatt recalls the advice his hero shared with him as “going back to the roots of bluegrass and learning it from where it began.”

The standout track that encapsulates the essence of Happy Valley is Wyatt’s original composition, 'Blue Smoke,' featuring bluegrass icon Marty Stuart. In the young musician’s home, set against a backdrop of smoky blue, Wyatt wrote a rousing melody that captures the beauty of the region and the legacy of the music that was created there. This tune showcases Wyatt's ability to blend tradition with boundless creativity.

One can't help but be inspired by Wyatt’s drive to keep the roots of bluegrass alive while also making a name for himself in the next generation. His upcoming debut album stands as a testament to the bluegrass tradition juxtaposed with a future without limitations. Wyatt's passion for the genre, inspired by its “drive, power, and tight harmonies,” is unmistakable.

As we conclude our insightful conversation with Wyatt, his journey emerges as a captivating symphony, harmonizing dreams with the notes of reality. From innocent melodies conceived by a twelve-year-old in his bedroom to the profound compositions of a rising bluegrass star, Wyatt's music embodies the spirit of tradition and innovation.

We are immensely happy to have had the opportunity to talk with Wyatt as he embarks on what we feel to be a burgeoning career. We have already witnessed his collaborations with the legends of bluegrass and know that the stellar career ahead will be filled with some amazing collaborations, songs, albums, and performances. Keep a keen eye on Ellis and upcoming performances - and if you are attending MerleFest 2024, be sure to see him perform live on Friday, April 26th, 2024.  If you live close to Nashville, Tennessee, come celebrate this tremendous album release with him TONIGHT, February 2nd, at the Grand Ole Opry at 7PM.

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

• Webpage
• Apple
• Facebook
• Instagram
• YouTube
• TIDAL
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Ascending from the roots of Albania, DC-raised rapper Big Cruz is rattling the music scene with the release of his fourth official album Cruz Control. Tapping into the depths of his upbringing, greatest losses, and rise to music, Cruz serves listeners a diverse plate of gripping tracks. From vibrant highs to chilling lows, this album scours the intertwinement of musical elevation and sentiment. 

It all started in his early childhood when Cruz grew magnetized to constructing poems. Weaving in and out of trouble, he often found himself subject to long study hall hours, where his musical instincts first churned. After taking a few warm-up laps around the microphone, Cruz recorded his first-ever song in his home country.  But it wasn’t until 2015 that he released his first  mixtape, Facts Only, laying the foundation for his music career and entrepreneurial journey. 

“Looking at myself back then and then looking at myself now, there’s been a lot of growth,” said Big Cruz reflecting on his experiences. “You gotta make mistakes to learn. That's how I see it. Every mistake is not a mistake, It's a lesson.”

Since then, Big Cruz released a plentitude of tracks, garnering substantial attention from listeners across the globe. During his ascension to stardom, he was consigned by DMV staple Yung Gleesh, making ripples across the local music scene. In 2021, he dropped international sensation Banda, whose traction signaled a pivotal progression in his career, accumulating over 200,000 streams on Spotify. 

Now, accustomed to the fast life, Big Cruz is coasting through the charts with Cruz Control. Featuring 11 galvanic hits, the album explores the multi-dimensions of Cruz- from the grueling past to the promising present. In a dynamic approach, each song features an enthralling beat blended with gut-punching lyrics. 

“I want to take control of listeners’ ears, whoever's tapped in,” said Big Cruz. “I want them to hear me and really take control of what they want to hear next.” 

True to its name, the album serves as a road trip essential, according to Cruz. With one hand on the steering wheel and the other recording, Cruz crafted almost 300 songs on the open road. In a two year long process, they were condensed into just two handfuls of polished tracks, with a few stragglers set to release later for fans.

Winding with its motivational intro, the album dives head-first into three thrashing bangers, Basics, Need Em, and Skrt Off. Fourth on the album showcases Dear Heaven, an insiders look at the hardships Cruz and others grapple with. Coinciding with similar themes are Soldier, a depiction of adversity in a third-world country and Devi, a front-to-back portrait of Cruz’s path. 

“I've never had a problem giving my side of my feelings, my emotions,” said Cruz, verbalizing his outlet. “That's what makes me an artist, that's my passion behind this shit. I love that shit. I do it for a living. I don't do it just for fun.”

Much like his album, Cruz is a multifaceted artist. Subsidiary to his music career is his record label, Facts Only Music Group, a staple part in his current trajectory. Although created only one year ago, the company evolved silently since his start. Born with an entrepreneurial itch, Cruz foresaw business plans before even adopting his stage name.

“I always wanted my own music entity,” said Cruz regarding his record label. “So creating this was the first step. It's something that I've been practicing since I was 15-16. I was doing merch, getting sweatshirts together. Then when I was in high school, I was selling them to my friends- $30 a piece. And then it was elevating and elevating to where I had release parties, starting working with different companies.”

The music organization serves to elevate creatives in the music scene and bolster their careers. Through his philosophy of “own your own”, Cruz established a self-rooted empire to ground his arc. As a successful musician and business owner, he offers aspiring musicians with a valuable piece of advice:

“Don’t believe people selling you dreams. That’s my main thing I wish I was told on the come up. Don’t believe the cap and keep your circle tight.” 

To learn more about Big Cruz please see the following web resources:

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• Spotify
• Soundcloud