Bryan McDowell Band

This is a seated, indoor show. Doors open at 7:00 PM, Bryan McDowell Band plays two sets from 7:30 - 9:30 PM.

Bryan McDowell is one of the most versatile and electrifying musicians in the American acoustic scene. He’s been the quintessential utility player for the talents of Molly Tuttle, Cris Jacobs, Claire Lynch, John McEuen, Sierra Hull, and others, where he contributed multi-instrumentalism and sweet tenor harmony. But his first solo effort documents a substantive shift. It reveals an artist in a new phase of his career–as composer, lyricist and vocalist. An expansion of his duo project with Mark Schatz, Bryan's release collects 8 original songs balanced on the stylistic foundations of his bluegrass forerunners while telling a contemporary story of working class living. Accompanying Bryan on tour will be some of the most respected figures in bluegrass. It features iconic bassist Mark Schatz, (Nickel Creek, Tony Rice, Tim O’Brien, Bela Fleck),the illustrious talents of modern mandolinist, Jacob Jolliff (Yonder Mountain String Band and Béla Fleck), explosive rhythm and lead guitar from Jake Stargel, (Sierra Hull, Mountain Heart, and Ricky Skaggs) and intricately woven 5-string banjo by Matt Menefee (Mumford & Sons, Wood Box Heroes, Cadillac Sky). The resulting ensemble is one unparalleled in technical and creative force. The songs will be eclectic, the soloing will be merciless, and the vocals compelling. The adventures in improvisation are untethered and the beats are unyielding. This is Bryan McDowell’s celebration of new music with friends on a tour that’s long overdue.

Thanks to our 2024-2025 season sponsors Bank of the James, Martin Wren P.C,Petite Marie Bette, Chris Wolfe with Allstate, Sticks Kebob Shop, Skooma Charlottesville, Woodard Properties, Virginia Commission for the Arts, Virginia is for Lovers, and ALC Copies for all of your support!