Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Nickel Creek and Yonder Mountain String Band: Mixing Bluegrass With Different Genres

Yonder Mountain String Band
                                                           Nickel Creek


22. Yonder Mountain String Band: Angel
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERjlLEHlltQ
Yonder Mountain String Band began playing in 1998. Much like the New Grass Revival and other bands of the progressive movement, they have a very different sound than traditional bluegrass. In this selection we hear a slower rhythm and weaker harmonies. The voices of the artist are much less distinct and pronounced than traditional bluegrass groups. We also hear the banjo solo in this song that seems more like a-freestyle than a planned banjo rife. Despite these flaws the band still holds the key elements of a bluegrass group and is thus widely accredited in this community.

23. Yonder Mountain String Band: Half Moon Rising
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3Yeum4AaDw&feature=related
This selection demonstrates how the Yonder Mountain String Band often does more closely reflect traditional bluegrass music than other progressive bands. In this selection we hear the familiar interplay of string instruments, different instruments leading, and a very smooth and simple quartets that follow soft solos. The selection is taking from a February 2006 show in an outdoor venue. The band’s tendency for playing outdoor venues is very much reflective of the new grass movement.

24. Nickel Creek: Lighthouse’s Tale
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTAyMt3ldSU
Nickel Creek has arguably the most unique sound on this entire list. The group mixes folk, pop, and bluegrass. This song shows how the use of violin, mandolin, and guitar reflect bluegrass roots. However, the lyrics and the quiet and smooth sound of the selection makes one immediately tie the lyrics to pop. For the most part the selection is sung by the guitarist with short harmonizing sections. This song truly reflects a new approach to bluegrass that seems to have a strong ability to attract new pop and soft rock listeners.

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