The imagery conjured up by a blue ridge gathering is one of soothing sentiment, a bond of brotherhood and music, with a decidedly mellow disposition.
Consequently, the Knoxville-based trio of neo-traditionalists that goes by the name Blue Ridge Gathering reflects an idyllic sense of serenity courtesy of agile instrumentation and a calming and contemplative mindset.
The trio — consisting of Cody Bauer (fiddle), Jessica Watson (guitar), and Duck Ryan (banjo) — make the most of their limited instrumentation while focusing on assured, articulate, and sophisticated songs that marry tradition with old time, bluegrass, Celtic, Appalachian, and contemporary influences. So too, they’ve achieved a level of credibility that testifies to their talents. They took first place in the Neo-Traditional Band Competition (2024) and at the Appalachian Stringband Festival, and received Best Original Song (2023) and Best Original Tune (2024) at Clifftop.
Their self-titled six-song EP features three covers and three originals. It’s a most impressive effort given that it’s an initial outing. The rousing instrumental Three Forks of Sandy finds them operating at a full-tilt tempo, while River Road morphs from a seemingly reserved regimen into a somewhat sprightly set-up that’s both assured and finessed. So too, there’s a distinct folk-like feel in Watson’s lithe vocals. Scarlet Town suggests more sobering sentiments, while Rain Check finds the band harmonies holding sway prior to picking up the pace with a rousing fiddle flourish.
That versatility and variety carries over to the rest of the set. Little Bird of Heaven comes across as cozy and comforting, an easy amble that the trio operating at a measured pace and an unhurried approach. Here again, Blue Ridge Gathering asserts an irresistible charm that’s all but impossible to ignore. The pluck and precision of the instrumental titled Green Cove further affirm their determination to maintain a certain down-home discipline.
Ultimately, Blue Ridge Gathering do well in reflecting the image of the idyllic environs reflected in their name. The music they make delivers on both the prospect and the premise.
