If it’s bluegrass, country and old time music that you hanker after, then John Reischman and the Jaybirds are the players for you.
A top-flight band delivering a truly fresh blend of original songs and instrumentals, old-time heritage, and bluegrass power, these musicians will be on fire for your toasty enjoyment on Sunday, Dec. 2 at the Big Yellow Merville Hall in sunny, downtown Merville.
The Jaybirds go back to the roots of bluegrass and old-time music for their inspiration, and spin these roots into a new sound.
Their latest cds feature the Jaybirds covering songs and tunes from Bill Monroe, Hobart Smith, and Hazel Dickens and Alice Gerrard.
But the real gems of the album are the band’s originals.
While these songs and tunes are clearly informed by the tradition, John Reischman & The Jaybirds have an eclectic creativity that guides their refreshing excursions in acoustic roots music.
Throughout, the bluegrass harmonies are spot-on, and each instrumental break crackles with energy.
“Their cds have everything one could ask for in a great bluegrass recording; Exciting new originals, great traditional numbers, razor sharp picking, and strong, distinctive singing. And of course any opportunity to hear the best bluegrass mandolin player in the business is just icing on the cake.” — Scott Tichenor, Mandolin Cafe
Their live show at the Merville Hall will feature their studied performance of original songs, instrumentals, and newly arranged traditional material.
Add to that the fun of watching the Jaybirds skillfully weave around one microphone and the often humorous exchanges as the next song is introduced, and you’ve got a very entertaining experience.
Opening for the Jaybirds will be The Cumberland Brothers and Fiddlejam.
The Big Yellow Merville Hall has just completed an upgrade of it’s washroom facilities and is setting itself up to become the Grand Ol’ Opry of the Comox Valley.
So come on down to the Big Yellow Merville Hall Sunday, Dec. 2, 2012 at 7:30 p.m., doors at 7 p.m. for an evening of old time bluegrass that’ll set the place on fire, Jaybirds style.
Advance tickets are $18/$10 (student) at The Music Plant or call Craig at 250-339-4249
Rickets are $20 /$12 at the door.