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The Toy Hearts
Bluegrass

New Album 'WHEN I CUT LOOSE' available here!



Birmingham
United Kingdom

Profile Views:  78244




Last Login:  11/9/2009
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   The Toy Hearts: General Info
Member Since7/18/2006
Band Websitewww.toyhearts.co.uk
Band Members Stewart Johnson
Banjo / Dobro

Sophia Johnson
Guitars / Vocals

Hannah Johnson
Vocals / Mandolin

Howard Gregory
Fiddle / Vocals

Bradley Blackwell
Double Bass









InfluencesBill Monroe, Hank Williams, Del McCoury, Ricky Skaggs, Alison Krauss, The Nashville Bluegrass Band, Blue Highway, Wayne Hancock, Tony Rice and Jerry Douglas.
Sounds LikePhotobucket
Type of LabelUnsigned


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   Upcoming Shows ( view all )
Nov 6 2009 8:00P
The Chindit Wolverhampton
Nov 13 2009 8:00P
The Floors Tenbury Wells
Nov 20 2009 8:00P
The Soundhouse Boulton, Northeast
Nov 22 2009 8:00P
Kitchen garden cafe Birmingham, Midlands
Nov 25 2009 9:00P
The Prom Bristol
Nov 28 2009 8:00P
Common Folk Club Walsall, Midlands
Dec 5 2009 8:00P
Franz K Reutlingen
Dec 6 2009 8:00P
Harmonie Bonn
Dec 7 2009 8:00P
Kammerspiele Ansbach
Dec 8 2009 8:00P
Haus der Kultur Waldkraiburg
Dec 9 2009 8:00P
Amerikahaus Munchen
Dec 10 2009 8:00P
Jagdhofkeller Darmstadt
Dec 11 2009 8:00P
Haus International Kempten
Dec 12 2009 8:00P
Reithalle Offenburg
Dec 13 2009 8:00P
Halle Querfeld Basel
Dec 14 2009 8:00P
Kulturkeller Fulda
Dec 16 2009 8:00P
Fabrik Hamburg
Dec 17 2009 8:00P
Lutherhaus Osnerbruck
Dec 18 2009 8:00P
Kulturfabrick Hildesheim
Dec 19 2009 8:00P
Albert Einstein Forum Kaarst
Dec 20 2009 8:00P
Kreuzkirche Kassel
Dec 22 2009 8:00P
Xmas Special @ hare and Hounds Birmingham, Midlands
Feb 14 2010 8:00P
The 50’s American Diner Derbyshire, Midlands
Feb 19 2010 12:00P
The Royal Albert Hall cafe London
Mar 27 2010 8:00P
Katie Fitzgeralds Stourbridge
Apr 30 2010 8:00P
Weobley Village Hall

The Toy Hearts's Latest Blog Entry  [Subscribe to this Blog]

Summer 09 Update, Festivals, Touring and The Toy Hearts No. 1 Fans  (view more)

traveller's rest gig 13/05 cancelled!  (view more)

European Bluegrass Summit, THs Bass and IBMAs 2009 Leadership Bluegrass!  (view more)

Imelda May, Christmas Special and THs Website & Mailing List!  (view more)

THs When I Cut Loose Review by Grace Muldoon!  (view more)

[View All Blog Entries]

   About The Toy Hearts


EBMA logo IBMA logo.. View The Toy Hearts's Sonicbids EPK

Since the release of their first album, 'If the Blues Come Calling' in 2006 Birmingham based bluegrass and swing outfit The Toy Hearts, have gained an envible reputation as one of the UK's hottest acts on the emerging acoustic scene; with a loyal ever-growing fan base who attend Toy Hearts concerts expecting an original, dynamic and innovative performance of modern bluegrass music. Sisters Hannah (lead vocal/mandolin) and Sophia (guitar/harmony vocals) front the band, and along with their father Stewart (banjo/dobro) they carry on the tradition of the family aspect within county music. Blood harmones, original songwriting and arrangements, instrumental virtuosity and a deep love for that high lonesome sound means that despite being geographically removed from the bluegrass state, the Johnson family have successfully created their own kind of sound that encompasses both Bill Monroe in Kentucky with a dash of hot club straight from the Continent. In 2007 the band played across the UK at, the 16th annual Appalatian Music festival in Omagh Northern Ireland, Dunmore East Bluegrass Festival, The Cornish Bluegrass Festival, Wolverstock Festival, Americana International, The Shetland Folk Festival and opened for Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder. The Toy Hearts went on to have a successful 2008 following the completion and release of their critically acclaimed second album. This time comprising of entirely self penned material; 'When I Cut Loose', recorded in Leamington Spa, UK shows a significant development in songwriting that more firmly establishes their own individuality as writers and performers. The Toy Hearts were thrilled to make their mark on the international touring circuit; attending European World of Bluegrass in Holland in May, and then winning second place at the French World of Bluegrass in August. 2008 also included two trips to the USA, showcases at SXSW in Austin in March, and showcases at the International Bluegrass Music Association's week long conference in Nashville, Tennessee in October. As well as performing at The Transatlantic Bluegrass School, The Acoustic Festival of Great Britain, East Anglian Bluegrass Festival and Moseley Folk festival The band have been busy raising their profile and increasing their fan-base across the country and beyond by opening for great acts such as Peter Rowan, Jack Lawrence, Tim O'Brien. 2009 promises to be just as exciting, the song 'The Angels Sing To Me' was featured on Prime Cuts of Bluegrass January release and has been very well received by Djs and critics alike. Hannah completed the Leadership Bluegrass course in March in Nashville TN, the band will be performing in Germany, France and heading back stateside for a tour in the fall! The Toy Hearts are currently working on material for a third album and performing at gigs and festivals around the UK and Europe this summer, as well as continuing to run a residency night in their hometown of Birmingham, on the 2nd Sunday of the month at The Kitchen Garden Café in Kings Heath. Country Cookin: Acoustic Review will support and feature local talent as well showcasing International artists, all hosted by your favourite house band The Toy Hearts! 'If The Blues Comes Calling' and 'When I Cut loose' are both available at www.toyhearts.co.uk www.myspace.com/thetoyhearts www.cdbaby.com www.smartchoice.com and selected independent retailers in the UK.
If the Blues Come Calling Album Cover


Photobucket

'The Toy Hearts are certainly a British band to watch. As a first rate bluegrass flavoured Country/Americana band – that also writes some exceptionally good songs - they could become responsible for helping British Bluegrass take a huge leap forward.' - Dee Hallett IBMA, EBMA

‘Hannah’s voice swings fluidly from coy sweetness (On My Way Home) to sexy raunch (Leave This Heart Alone), at times (as on the lovely hot club sounding cover of Bob Wills’s Right Or Wrong) evocative of a young Patsy Cline while the sister’s harmonies lick a tingle down the spine… Sophia is one hot flat picker, fingers positively burning up the frets.’ – Net Rhythm Review, Sept, 2006

‘Because the band has different experiences to a band that grows up in Kentucky the songs will have their own touches that bring the album to this side of the pond. The songs are strong with a good and at times poetic lyric. 
Good bluegrass hits the spot and this hits the spot like a back kick from a surprised mustang.’ Fatea, 2006.

‘The Toy Hearts… not only play good bluegrass, but also take it beyond the realm of traditional bluegrass mimicry… Found in these original songs are riffs and arrangements that shoot for the contemporary. This band will only get better as time goes on.’ DH - Bluegrass Unlimited Review Oct, 2007

‘This is an outstanding album from a British group and undoubtedly one of the best I’ve heard this year and is highly recommended’. - Country Music File, July 2008

'I think the Toy Hearts are a wonderful band because they have a unique sound. Although rooted in bluegrass music, they draw from several other influences that come out in their original songs which makes their sound fresh. They have an energetic live show as well, where they play mostly if not all of their own music. And that's what is great about them--they're doing their own thing, and not just mimicking other bands. They are very passionate about their music, and it shows.' – Andy Falco, The Infamous Stringdusters – February 2009

'When I heard this beautiful song about bluegrass music, and the fine performance, it brought tears to my eyes! There is no substitute for the musical feeling that comes from a heartfelt performance. This is a great original song, and the vocals are absolutely fantastic! Prime Cuts of Bluegrass, USA DJ comments for ‘The Angels Sing to Me’ '– Joe Steiner, WLFC

'What a beautiful voice! Bluegrass torch singers are few, but this lady fills the bill. The use of dobro works extremely well with her voice forming a unit that will keep the listener hooked from beginning to end.' Prime Cuts of Bluegrass, USA DJ comments for ‘The Angels Sing to Me’ – Wayne Bledsoe, KMST

'An excellent example of our beloved music and how it transcends the continents. Fine job!' Prime Cuts of Bluegrass, USA DJ comments for ‘The Angels Sing to Me’ – Ben West, WMMT

'Sounds like Angels singing to me! Prime Cuts of Bluegrass, USA DJ comments for ‘The Angels Sing to Me’' – Al Shusterman, KCBL

'Excellent sister harmony. Talented sogwriters. Prime Cuts of Bluegrass, USA DJ comments for ‘The Angels Sing to Me’' – Wilson Moore, CHMA

'What a sweet sounding group. Bluegrass is in great hands in the UK. Prime Cuts of Bluegrass, USA DJ comments for ‘The Angels Sing to Me’' – Larry Roberts, WGCS

'Exciting and Exhilerating is the music produced by a new UK Group called Toy Hearts. On this new project When I Cut Loose -there are great vocals and super musicianship - WOW! I first saw the cover and thought just another "pretty girls fronted" band and expected mediocrity performances. Then from the first song, was I in for a big surprise! Original tunes - spicey arrangements - it left me wanting to get to know this band! I guess if I had to choose three words to describe this project - it would be HOT, HOT, HOT!

This is one group to be watched closely - they will fast become a favorite group of yours if you're into creative music arrangements, nice sweet female vocals, and some really great picking. Take the Toy Hearts home with ya - just dont break them - they are NOT easily replaced. Check em out!'

Gracie Muldoon – Worldwideblugrass.com

   The Toy Hearts's Friend Space (Top 28)
The Toy Hearts has 2396 friends.
 Sophia 


 Hannah 


 Bradley 


 Howard 


 Raphaël Maillet 


 bexx 


 Imelda May 


 Cherry Bomb Rock Photography 


 Del McCoury Band 


 Steep Canyon Rangers 


 CADILLAC SKY 


 The SteelDrivers 


 Hot Club of Cowtown 


 Ced Thorose 


 Ray Cargo 


 Andy Falco 


 Chad "Gravy Boat" Graves 


 Lauren 


 Charlie Dore 


 Rick Alexander 


 Jeff & Vida 


 The Rosellys 


 Fola 


 andie@gighouse 


 ♥B®i@nn@♥ 


 Country Rendez-Vous Festival 


 COASTLINE BLUEGRASS MUSIC EVENT 


 IBMA 





The Toy Hearts's Friends Comments
Displaying 25 of 658 comments  ( View All | Add Comment )
Christian Lamitschka, Journalist for Country Music

Christian Lamitschka



Nov 8 2009 5:13 PM

Christmas is coming soon. Are you looking for a Christmas present and would like to help handicapped children? Than please request the list of donations in kind from HelpCharity, www.MySpace.com/HelpCharity , by sending me an e-mail at Ch.Lamitschka@t-online.de . Many donations in kind are autographed.

If you don't have the chance to request the list of donations in kind, please add HelpCharity to your Top Friends!

Thanks for helping me to support handicapped children!

Christian

Founder of HelpCharity
Editor & Journalist for Country Music
Christian Lamitschka
An der Pfingstweide 28
61118 Bad Vilbel
Germany
Phone: ++49 (0) 6101 544613
Mobil: ++49 (0) 171 6903352
E-Mail: Ch.Lamitschka@t-online.de
Internet: www.MySpace.com/HelpCharity
Internet: www.MySpace.com/ChristianLamitschka
Stacey

Stacey Brown



Nov 7 2009 3:25 PM

have a nice weekend my dear friend :)
♥B®i@nn@♥

♥B®i@nn@♥



Nov 6 2009 10:15 AM

Hey guys!!!
sorry i missed you in Nashville!!!
we all had the flu and didn't get to come to IBMA!
hope to see you all next time your in the states!
Big Hugs from your friend and biggest fan!!!!
xx Brianna♥
The Forsyth's

The Forsyth's



Nov 5 2009 7:58 PM

Thanks For Being our Friend

Join us here for a free ringtone




Ruby Jane

Ruby Jane



Nov 2 2009 7:20 PM

Ruby Jane and Mark O'Connor: Virtuosos of teh American Fiddle: http://www.poptech.org/blog/mark_oconnor_and_ruby_jane_smith_virtuosos_of_american_fiddle

Ruby Jane Article in New York Times!!
http://mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/09/26/who-do-these-guys-think-they-are/
AND
Check out the new pictures and video! Let me know what you think!
Ruby Jane
Jessie

Jessie Grey



Oct 30 2009 2:53 AM

thanks for the add,glad to be friends :)
BIKA

BIKA



Oct 28 2009 8:46 AM

Hi,



Thank you for the Friendship!



I appreciate it!



If you are in the mute for mellowmusic, feel free to check my soundsite & let me know what you think!



I wish you a great week!



cheers, bika


Tone Silvia Holen

Tone Silvia Holen



Oct 24 2009 3:57 PM

Hi !

Great music !
Thanks for the friendship :)
Tone
ed a.k.a. GaelicStormer

ed mcdermott



Oct 23 2009 5:34 AM



 





THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE ADD....ED






 





 




 





 

Ansbacher Kammerspiele

Ansbacher Kammerspiele



Oct 22 2009 2:14 PM

thanks for adding us...
looking forward to see you on our stage

best greetings

kammerspiele
CAROL

CAROL



Oct 19 2009 4:30 PM

Thanks For The Add comment graphics
Thanks For The Add Comment Graphics at YouPimped.com
DJ Rocking Earl Mike

DJ Rocking Earl Mike



Oct 19 2009 11:46 AM

Hello Toy Hearts,
thanks for accepting my friendship.
Greetings from Berlin, Germany
Mike





Mandy

Mandy



Oct 19 2009 11:31 AM

thanks for the friendship...
Oklahoma

Oklahoma



Oct 18 2009 7:59 PM

Thanks from france for adding us!
God Bless
Oklahoma



Digital Geek

Digital Geek



Oct 16 2009 9:15 PM

Hi The Toy Hearts !

I love your music !

Keep the music on : )

Stacey

Stacey Brown



Oct 16 2009 6:56 AM

Thanks for the add,Welcome to my space ^_^
KEN WILLIAMSON

Ken Williamson



Oct 15 2009 1:10 PM

It is a pleasure to have you as my new MySpace friend… I find your MySpace page, your talent and your enthusiasm for music pleason’ to many… I welcome you’re other MySpace friends to visit my MySpace page that I’ve dedicated to my admiration of many talented guitar playing musicians of many styles… Stop by check it out and leave a comment if you like… Thanks Ken…
Digital Geek

Digital Geek



Oct 11 2009 1:53 PM

Hi The Toy Hearts !

Keep the music on : )

Chad "Gravy Boat" Graves

Chad "Gravy Boat" Graves



Oct 5 2009 6:44 PM

Y'all rock my world.
Digital Geek

Digital Geek



Sep 28 2009 2:49 PM

Hello The Toy Hearts

Big Up : )

i Definly Like your Music

Keep Up !
Digital Geek

Digital Geek



Sep 28 2009 2:35 PM

Hello The Toy Hearts

Big Up : )

i Definly Like your Music

Keep Up !
Digital Geek

Digital Geek



Sep 24 2009 6:05 PM

Hello The Toy Hearts

Big Up : )

i Like your Music

Keep On !

Tamara Johnson

Tamara Johnson



Sep 23 2009 7:09 AM

Rock Around The Park™

Rock Around The Park™



Sep 12 2009 2:56 AM

Come join us for the 2nd annual Rock Around The Park™ Rockabilly / Psychobilly day at Disneyland on Saturday, November 14, 2009!

Rock Around The Park™

We also have The Rock Around The Park Jamboree™ bands and burlesque at The Juke Joint in Anaheim, CA on Friday, November 13, 2009 with The Rocketz, Rip Carson, No Dice, Dizzy Von Damn! burlesque, KimberLee Rose burlesque and DJ Remy Voodoo!

The Rock Around The Park Jamboree™




Follow us on Twitter on the day of Rock Around The Park™ for special prizes throughout the day. We only "tweet" the day of the event.


Follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/rockaroundpark


http://twitter.com/rockaroundpark
Christian Lamitschka, Journalist for Country Music

Christian Lamitschka



Sep 11 2009 11:34 AM

Today I like to inform you, that you can read and watch interviews with your favorit country stars in Enlgish, German and French at http://www.CountryHome.de/Interviews .

Warm regards

Christian

Editor & Journalist for Country Music
Christian Lamitschka
An der Pfingstweide 28
61118 Bad Vilbel
Germany
Phone: ++49 6101 544613
Mobil: ++49 171 6903352
Ch.Lamitschka@t-online.de
Info@CountryMusic-Magazin.de
www.MySpace.com/ChristianLamitschka
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