Dayton

    If you ever wondered how bluegrass music seemed to jump into the world fully formed, listen and watch DAYTON—that’s how. -Ron Thomason

    Brian Aldridge, known nationally for his spectacular mandolin work, his expertise regarding bluegrass instruments in general, his playing and singing in Dry Branch Fire Squad, and his ability to present bluegrass music in its original and powerful form like the founding fathers (and mothers) of the genre did, will bring his southern Ohio bluegrass group, DAYTON, to HMHF this July.  Everyone in the group presents the exceedingly traditional music as if they were born to it—which they were.  Much of their music may resemble the songs of the Vintage Bluegrass Band that Brian presented here several years ago.  If you ever wondered how bluegrass music seemed to jump into the world fully formed, listen and watch DAYTON—that’s how.  See below for more info about the band members.

    Jeff Byrd of Fairborn, Ohio. A musician with 40 years under his belt takes
    musicianship to a new level. His demeanor on and off stage is professional
    and inspiring. Having stents with bands like The Kings Journeymen, Higher
    Ground, and Jetts Creek. You can catch Jeff and his bass and his many
    fans, all over the country with Dry Branch Fire Squad. Jeff also brings
    Bass, Baritone, and Lead Vocals to round out his accompaniment.

    Wayne Haddix of Lebanon, Ohio (son of Herchel Haddix a staple in the Dayton
    Bluegrass/Gospel community), playing music since his early childhood, brings ajJ
    rhythm and vocal combination to Blackwater that is pleasing to the crowd. He has
    stood on many stages with New Mountain Heritage, and with The Haddix Family,
    Wayne has travelled the States playing Bluegrass and Gospel music for over 50
    years.

    Evan Lanier of Carlisle, Ohio (grandson of well-known bass player Noel Bolen),
    was surrounded at a young age by the greatest musicians of the Dayton/Cincinnati
    area. Evan was steeped in the tradition and artistry of Bluegrass. From travelling
    the Midwest with Evan Lanier and The Bluegrass Express, to travelling the US and
    Canada with The Kody Norris Show, as well as with Larry Sparks and The
    Lonesome Ramblers, Evan has over 20 years of experience in music. His driving
    banjo and exceptional guitar picking is foundational to Blackwater.

    Tony Hale of Monroe, Ohio (nephew of accomplished guitar player Ernie Sexton),
    has 20 years of musical experience. Early beginnings found him learning to play
    bass with his afore mentioned uncle in Paul Blevins’ band of Middletown, Ohio. He
    continued with Bluegrass but found inspiration while singing in a southern gospel
    quartet. His passion of songwriting has taken him back to his early memories on
    Blackwater Creek in Morgan County, Kentucky where generations of his family
    made their home. Tonys drive to unite old time gospel and bluegrass complements
    his clear and precise vocal ability.

    Brian Aldridge of Springfield, Ohio (son of Howard Aldridge, banjo player for Bill
    Monroe in the 1960s), has 50 years of experience in Bluegrass. From his earlier
    days with Timely Arrival to present day with Dry Branch Fire Squad, Brian has
    travelled from the east to the west coast playing all of the major venues and
    festivals, bringing his own style of mandolin playing and harmony to the Bluegrass
    community, as well as to Blackwater.

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