Based in the Washington DC area, Dirty River performs traditional, contemporary, and original American music.
The title track of their brand new CD, Graveyard Train, is emblematic of their unique contribution to the modern bluegrass and acoustic roots landscape. Originally written by John Fogerty as a dirge, these amazing lyrics now breathe anew, with hard-driving instrumentation and urgent vocals lending immediacy to the tragedy. The boys of Dirty River are also notable songwriters themselves, sharing with their audience plaintive lyrics, gritty instrumentals, and timeless stories, which can be found on this first full-length release.
Dirty River's very essence is the same creative energy that spawned bluegrass in the first place. "Bill Monroe blended black blues with Irish reels to create the genre", says Dirty River banjoist Evan Sands, "He found the common human essence of both and applied it to his time. It was mongrel music, to be sure, but that..s what made it so alive and irresistible. Except for folks whose ancestors came over on the Mayflower", he continues, "there's nothing pure in our culture. It is only fitting that our music should reflect this."
This DC-based band embodies hybrid vigor. ..Sometimes we think of ourselves as a rock band playing bluegrass instruments.., adds bassist Gary Cole, ..but even that can..t capture what we do. So we don..t spend a lot of time trying to decide what label to give it. We just play... As you listen to their material: bluegrass standards blended with Stones, Byrds and Robert Palmer covers, original tunes, spiced up with New Riders and Dylan, you feel like you..ve stepped into a multigenerational kitchen; Simple ingredients, life experience, new ideas, it..s all welcome. The resulting stew may elude description, but you won..t go home hungry.
Hey Guys, Haven't seen you in a while. Still loving Cool Water. My idea of the perfect gig would be Dirty River and The Druthers together for one great night of music!
Thanks guys for the add. I'm trying to get a song page up with my music, just haven't taken the time to put any of my work up yet. I'm sure you know who I am, Because I;'ve been Rockin since day one!
To any others on the friends list. Be sure to add me because I'll have some songs up as well. As far as Dirty River goes, Keep up the good work fellas!! Talk to everyone later!
