Chamberfolk: Three classically trained musicians playing original music, as intricately arranged as a string quartet, lyrically rooted in the singer/songwriter tradition, and wrapped in three-part vocal harmonies reminiscent of both Appalachia and Medieval Europe. Building from the tonal depth of the cello (or is it a bass?), layer in the shimmering sounds of a violin and the strikingly natural addition of banjo to create a sound at once familiar and impossible to categorize. Unapologetic genre-benders, Harpeth Rising fuses Folk, Newgrass, Rock and Classical into something organically unique. The three musicians each hold classical performance degrees from some of the most venerated schools in the world: Indiana University, Oberlin, Eastman School of Music. Hallmarks of their music include expansive three-part harmonies, consummate musicianship and a deft, yet soulful, lyrical perspective.
Against All Tides, Harpeth Rising’s sophomore album as a trio, is proof that authenticity and complexity can live in harmony. It is an exploration of spirituality in place of fundamentalism, uncertainty as philosophy, and an unwavering declaration that human connection is the ultimate force for good in the universe. The songs, crafted lyrically by Jordana Greenberg and arranged by all three members of the trio – Maria Di Meglio, Michelle Younger and Greenberg – do not intend to distract from the social and political atmosphere. They are the vehicle by which the band has chosen to add their voices to the ongoing fight for understanding and respect. Altogether, they present a picture of determined optimism: Things are not as they should be, but we will push back, against all tides.
Their previous release, SHIFTED, debuted at #1 on the Folk-DJ charts, and gained them international exposure, leading to headlining slots at festivals including Kerrville Folk Festival (Texas), The National Folk Festival (Australia), Brevard Music Festival (North Carolina), Musicport Festival (England), and Costa Del Folk (Portugal).
Harpeth Rising is on tour promoting their latest release, ‘Against All Tides’, and will be on tour in Wisconsin: Thursday, June 28 at the Trueblood Performing Arts Center in Washington Island, and Friday, June 29 at Woodwalk Gallery in Egg Harbor.
Thursday, June 28, Trueblood Performing Arts Center, Washington Island: 7:30 PM, Adult tickets are $16, $11 for students and 12 and under are FREE. Tickets and more information online at www.truebloodpac.com.
Friday, June 29, Woodwalk Gallery, Egg Harbor: 7 PM, admission is $20 cash at the door. Tickets are more information at www.woodwalkgallery.com.