L4LM Exclusive Throwback: Greensky Bluegrass Goes Old-School At NWSS 2014

Over the last fifteen years, Greensky Bluegrass has evolved into one of the most powerful live bands on the music scene, through amazing shows, relentless touring and a playful spirit. Their fusion of bluegrass instrumentation and a modern, progressive edge, stellar musicianship and a strong dose of driving, psychedelic jamming has made them a must see act for any music fan.

At last year’s Northwest String Summit, they decided to do something special for the hardcore bluegrass crowd. For one night at least, they dusted off their traditional, “Single Mic” performance skills and treated everyone present by performing a stripped down, old-school bluegrass set. Abandoning their usual layout and performance design, they brought their music back to it’s roots, the gathering around a single, centered microphone. An incredible challenge for those not in the know, such a method involves a sense of spacing and a knowledge of how sound waves themselves work that many would not even understand, much less attempt. Though they played numerous shows in their earlier days in such a style, their dedication to their craft required them to rework their songs, rethink their approach to performing them and even refresh their wardrobe!

Not content to try this experiment alone, they brought in a number of special guests, including Chris Pandolfi and Travis Book of The Infamous Stringdusters, Allie Kral of Yonder Mountain String Band, Andy Thorn of Leftover Salmon, Scott Law, Pete Karsounes and more to help make a special night magical. There were stellar renditions of old songs, amazing covers and possibly one of the greatest readings of their song “Don’t Lie” that has ever been given. No one can say if this truly unique experience will ever be repeated, but luckily for all of us, our own Rex Thomson was on hand to film the proceedings in full. Thanks to the generous permission of the band, and the efforts of the always amazing Taper Steve, we are proud to give the world a chance to see this show for the ages.

Watch the full show below, broken into tracks for your convenience! The band is in incredible form throughout the show. Early tune “Salty Dog Blues” practically crackles with energy. They capture the wit and wistful-ness of John Hartford‘s “Steam Powered Aeroplane,“ following it quickly with a tight “Just To Lie.” The guest star highlights include Travis Book taking lead vocals on “Blue Nile,” and Allie Kral’s meltdown jam during the “Little Maggie>After Midnight>Little Maggie” free for all. Oh, and that’s all without mentioning a roller coaster rendition of “Can’t Stop Now” and a fifteen minute “Don’t Lie” that shows why the band is known for not only their live shows, but their stellar song craft. We’re very happy to share this special show with all of you. Enjoy!

01. “I’ve Waited As Long As I Can”