Larry Sparks & the Lonesome Ramblers
Larry Sparks remains true to the best traditions of bluegrass. Named as the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Male Vocalist of the Year in 2004 and 2005—and as winner of both Album of the Year and Recorded Event of the Year honors in the latter for the star-studded 40—the legendary veteran returns to the Song of the Mountains stage for the January 2008 show.
Larry began his career working with the Stanley Brothers and Ralph Stanley during the 1960’s. He later started his own band, the Lonesome Ramblers, which led to his recording career and a variety of albums. He is now established as one of the finest artists in bluegrass.
Larry’s style of singing and playing are among the most reproduced in bluegrass. His guitar playing is legendary with his hot solos and “lonesome” instrumentals. Larry’s singing has earned him the reputation of “the most soulful voice in bluegrass”. Larry Sparks always brings delightful humor and provides good music. This Song of the Mountains concert will be Larry’s first show at The Lincoln Theatre, and promises to be a special evening of classic bluegrass entertainment for the entire family. www.larrysparks.com
Curly SecklerBluegrass legend Curly Seckler began his career in music in 1935, performing with his brothers on WSTP radio in Salisbury, NC. In1939 he hit the big time, when Charlie Monroe recruited him to sing harmony in his new band after the breakup of the Monroe Brothers.
Curly Seckler is the embodiment of bluegrass history - a legendary entertainer who has seen it all - and living proof that traditional bluegrass still thrives in the new millennium! www.curlyseckler.net
Steep Canyon Rangers
2006 International Bluegrass Music Association Emerging Artist of the Year, The Steep Canyon Rangers have carved out a special spot in the world of bluegrass music, creating a sound that looks forward and backwards at the same time. First formed in the stairwells and kitchens of Chapel Hill, NC, the Rangers arrive from varied musical backgrounds. On stage and in the studio, Woody Platt, Mike Guggino, Charles Humphrey, Nicky Sanders, and Graham Sharp have perfected their ensemble approach using fierce dynamics and seamless harmonies. The Rangers base their sound around a stunning catalogue of original songs, drawing on the sounds of early bluegrass, honky tonk, and blues.
The Steep Canyon Rangers have built a reputation as a powerful, engaging quintet seasoned by constant touring. Their willingness to carry bluegrass to music-lovers worldwide has put the band on stage at Americana and Bluegrass festivals in the U.S. and overseas, as well as major Rock & Roll venues on the national jam-band circuit. www.steepcanyon.com
Born and raised in Switzerland, Jens and Uwe Kruger have been performing professionally since 1973. After playing for twenty years throughout Europe in various styles and venues, Uwe on guitar and Jens on banjo, the brothers invited bassist Joel Landsberg to join them, and the three musicians formed the acoustic trio audiences around the world know as the Kruger Brothers.
Kruger Brothers performances are exciting, calming, entertaining and spontaneous, reflecting their sheer joy in playing music. Their virtuoso playing combined with the manner in which they interact with each other and with their audience makes their music uniquely special. The Kruger Brothers' musical style defies definition, encompassing all styles of music through their personal individual development, classical European musical influences, and love of the American spirit. Combine it all together and the result is what can only be described as new American music. www.krugerbrothers.com
