Spirit Family Reunion

Today I will be talking about a less known band that has a lot of potential. Spirit Family Reunion was the opening act when I saw Trampled by Turtles on December 6th. Their band consists of six members that play old timey American music fast or slow. Nick Panken (vocals/guitar), Maggie Carson (vocals/banjo), Stephen Weinheimer (vocals/bass drum/washboard/tambourine), Mat Davidson (fiddle/accordion), Ken Woodward (vocals/bass), and Peter Pezzimenti (vocals/drums).

The instruments consist of guitar, fiddle, accordian, standup bass, drums, banjo, and a washboard. Yes, they use a washboard! Their instrument choice is one of the reasons they have such a unique sound the washboard adds a fantastic rhythm to their music along with the drum and bass while the fiddle and banjo fill the songs in with speedy runs.

Green Rocky Road- Spirit Family Reunion

 

On top of all of their instrumental talent their singing abilities are phenomenal! Mat Davidson singing abilities and range may be the best that I have ever heard, and the ability of the whole group harmonizing has a true bluegrass feel.

If you were to assume that this group was from Kentucky or West Virginia from their style you would be wrong. They actually started playing on street corners and subways in New York City. With help from other more established bands such as Trampled by Turtles they are finally on their way to getting the recognition they have worked for and truly deserve.

A list of shows where you should go to see Spirit Family Reunion live and truly experience their music:  http://www.spiritfamilyreunion.com/#shows