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The Spud Puppies came together in 2001
with their newgrass credentials already established, being eight veterans
of the Midwest acoustic and jam-band scenes. Uniquely anchored by drums and percussion, the sound the band used to call “bluegrass with a kick” is now better described as Transatlantic Folk-Rock. And just like their recorded work, the live show is marked by blazing instrumental prowess that never outshines the stellar songwriting. No fewer than five members contribute songs to the repertoire, with lyrics that ring true to contemporary audiences while resonating with a sense of history. Founding guitarist-vocalist Greg Ziesemer is the primary writer and the nearest thing the band has to a leader, though the Pups pride themselves on democratic decision-making and a shared spotlight. Acoustic bass guitarist Gary Wasson also writes and sings, and lead guitarist Dave Bigley contributes backing vocals when not tossing off stunning electric and acoustic solos.
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The pillars of the band’s bluegrass
element are Boyd Thaxton on mandolin and Kevin Donnelly, known to
some fans as Delmar Lincoln, on the banjo. Keyboard wizard and multi-instrumentalist
Garry Bole adds exotic flavorings and intriguing instrumental arrangements.
And the band’s most surprising quality, perhaps, is the seamless way
in which Gary Rakow’s trap set and Tim Williams’ hand percussion add
solid grooves and world music accents to musical genres that generally
shun both.
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Dave Bigley: acoustic and electric lead
guitar, vocals, banjo
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The Spud Puppies "Pick of the Litter" is now available for purchase at CDBabycom! Click here: |
The Spud Puppies "Off the Leash" is now available for purchase at CDBabycom! Click here: |
