A lot has happened since our last post. Our “new” bass player, Buckwheat Green has settled in and has already written a couple of new songs we’re featuring on our shows, both of which will probably be on our next recording. Speaking of recording, we’ve been talking to several record labels and, after releasing all of our prior recordings independently, we expect to make an announcement in the near future about our next recording. We’ve enjoyed another visit to IBMA and SPBGMA, and we’ve been working toward our goal of traveling more this year, with shows in WV, OH, VA, NC, and TN already on the books and visits to MD, GA, and KY likely to be confirmed any day now. Check our schedule and make plans to visit with us somewhere this year.

Beginning at IBMA, we’ve added several endorsements, including Blue Chip Picks, Peterson Strobe Tuners, and Schecter Guitars. Buckwheat is now the proud owner of a new bass guitar courtesy of Schecter Guitars, and we expect to have some photos of him playing it posted to the website in the near future.

Another big development since our last post is Jim joining the staff of Bluegrass Today as a staff correspondent, writing about news and events in the world of bluegrass, as well as reviewing new recordings, concerts, and other items of interest. Bluegrass is the pre-eminent online source for bluegrass news and Jim is thankful to have this opportunity. Buckwheat is also a frequent guest contributor for the site.

Jim was awarded a $1000 scholarship to attend Pete (Dr. Banjo) Wernick’s advanced banjo camp in Boulder Colorado in January. Accompanied by Valerie, they had a great time and made many new friends. An extra bonus, Jim wrote two new songs on the plane ride west, which they expect to debut on stage in the near future. Thankful for a mild winter, we’re looking forward to hitting the road and hope to see you soon.