Greensky Bluegrass; Courage For The Road Tour

Words / Photos: Kenneth Coles

Greensky Bluegrass is leading the charge into the new wave of the bluegrass genre. Their mix of classic instrumentals on staples like the mandolin, banjo and fiddle with the upbeat tempos of  the newgrass style have created something original that has been emulated by those who have followed them. A wonderful blend of root favorites such as The Stanley Brothers and Old Crow Medicine show with the rock star performances and light shows of new school stars like Tramples By Turtles a Greensky show is a unique adventure into the southern sound. 

The five-piece act has a typical bluegrass stage presence with the musicians lined up so that each performer gets their own space to shine but no one instrument is front and center. This creates a sense that they aren’t a band as much as a collaborative ensemble. If there is a frontman its mandolin wielding lead singer Paul Hoffman with his signature locks blowing in the wind of his stage fan. Hoffman shares the spotlight with his talented bandmates in turn with Michael Bont on Banjo, Mike Devol on Bass, David Bruzza on guitar and Anders Beck on dobro. 

But what really makes this quintet’s performance truly memorable is the accompanying light show. The visuals match up with the music so seamlessly that it feels like such an organic experience that mesmerizes and inspires you to dance at the same time. 

Check out Greensky Bluegrass at the State Theatre on January 23rd as they continue their U.S. tour “Courage For The Road”. The band will be releasing soundboard recordings from each show along the journey with each stop showcasing different arrangements of their 200 plus song catalog.