Greensky Bluegrass are as big in sound as they are in authenticity. While their roots may be in traditional bluegrass and string acoustics, their main-stage level performances have wowed crowds across the country for almost two decades.
The classic Americana group is bringing their big sound to the Joy Theater tomorrow night, October 4th. With support from the Michigan Rattlers, it’s sure to be a high energy, dancey time that you don’t want to miss.
The Origins of a Green Sky
The Greensky Bluegrass claim to fame is their energetic blend of authentic bluegrass and edgy rock ‘n roll. It’s an acoustic stomp that makes crowds hoot, holler, swing, and dance all across the country.
They started together nearly 20 years ago in their hometown of Kalamazoo, Michigan. The band played casually at parties and open mic nights while they honed their craft and tightened their sound.
Their debut album Less Than Supper saw the addition of a bass player to their previous lineup of guitar, mandolin and banjo. After winning a band contest at a Bluegrass Festival in Colorado, success wasn’t far behind. The final addition of a dobro player sealed their 5-person lineup.
Their fourth studio album proved to be their breakthrough. Handguns debuted at number three on the Billboard bluegrass charts in 2011. After the success of the album, the group hit the summer festival circuit. They even made an appearance at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.
Their performances hinge on this full spectacle of rock ‘n roll, and less of the subtlety of traditional bluegrass. With as many as 175 shows a year, its clear the Michigan boys have graduated to headlining status. They’ve gone on to sell-out world-class and iconic venues like Red Rocks Amphitheater.
“The goal isn’t just to play important music. We want to cultivate an experience, where people can escape from their everyday lives for a minute and put their worries aside.”
- guitarist Dave Bruzza
Their loyal audiences will sometimes travel for hours to see the band. And despite their major-label success, the group is still a proudly independent act. They debuted their fifth album, 2014’s If Sorrows Swim – at number one on the Billboard charts without ever giving up control of their music and business.
The group is touring to promote their latest album, the cheekily titled All for Money that was just released earlier this year. Greensky Bluegrass will be supported by the Michigan Rattlers for their Joy Theater performance.
Doors are at 7 PM; Show starts at 8 PM.
Get tickets for Greensky Bluegrass at the Joy Theater here.
Follow River Beats New Orleans to stay up to date on all your favorite events in the city.
0 comments on “Greensky Bluegrass Light Up the Joy Theater This Weekend”