Hailing from Johnson City, TN, this artist’s musical journey has been one of reinvention, resilience, and boundless creativity. Before stepping into the spotlight as a solo act, they honed their craft in multiple bands, each serving as a stepping stone toward a distinct musical identity.
The story begins with The Living Trees, where they first picked up the bass before transitioning to drums. The band’s sound leaned towards a fresh take on newgrass, blending bluegrass traditions with modern energy. It was an exciting period of experimentation and musical growth.
Soon after, they joined Jen Rock & The Cry Babies as a bassist, diving into a new sonic landscape. However, when that band met its end, they regrouped with some former members to form Other Large Birds. This project introduced a unique dynamic—instrument-swapping among bandmates depending on the song. It was here that songwriting and vocal performance truly became a personal focus.
But when Other Large Birds disbanded, the frustration was undeniable. Depending on others had become an exhausting cycle, and it was time to take control. This decision marked a turning point—embracing their own name and identity as a solo artist.
The next chapter saw the formation of a steady three-piece with Sam Love and Will Diebold. Their chemistry fueled a powerful stage presence, and they held strong for years. When Travis was in town, he would often sit in, adding yet another layer to the evolving soundscape.
Then came the pandemic—a time of uncertainty but also transformation. With Travis moving back, the timing was right to record The Buzzard, a defining moment in their career. The album captured raw emotion and reflected the trials of the time.
As live music slowly made its return, change was inevitable. Sam’s growing commitments to live production work made consistency difficult, leading to a stripped-down, acoustic three-piece format without drums. This unexpected shift forced a new approach to performance, emphasizing intimacy and storytelling.
For nearly a year and a half, the acoustic trio redefined their sound. And then, a new opportunity emerged—Neko joined the lineup, bringing fresh energy and a renewed sense of direction.
This evolution is evident in their latest album, Knock Knock. Spanning from 2020 to 2024, the album serves as a sonic documentary, capturing the many phases of the artist’s journey. One standout track, “Jawbone,” was recorded live in just one or two takes with their friend Tron behind the board. Originally, a singing saw was meant to be layered in as an overdub, but it never quite fit. The decision to scrap it preserved the organic feel of the recording.
What’s next? The momentum continues to build. With the recent addition of an accordion player, the sound is expanding once more, promising a fresh direction for the future.
This artist’s story is one of perseverance, reinvention, and fearless creativity. From swapping instruments in bands to finding their voice as a solo act, their journey has been anything but ordinary. And with each new record, the evolution marches forward, proving that music is never static—it’s alive, breathing, and ever-changing.
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