BLUEGRASS JAM SPECIAL EDITION FEATURING THE DARREN NICHOLSON BAND
OPEN BLUEGRASS JAM FOLLOWS AT 9:30PM!
A Grammy nominee and the winner of 13 International Bluegrass Music Association awards, Darren Nicholson has taken his own brand of mountain music around the world. A regular for years on the Grand Ole Opry and a founding member of acclaimed bluegrass group Balsam Range, Darren now spends his time recording, writing new songs, and performing original roots music inspired by the history & culture of his native Western North Carolina — homegrown, wholehearted music with a purpose.
A punchy mandolinist with instrumentation nods to Bill Monroe and Marty Stuart, Darren is also an introspective songwriter, technical harmony singer, convincing lead vocalist, and a man on a mission. His shows are a tailored experience — genuine, entertaining, and an extended handshake to the community, reflecting the fun-witted and approachable character formed in his raising.
Darren’s passion is sharing raw, honest-to-goodness, quality music with his audience. Music that’s good for his soul and theirs too. “That’s all I want,” says Darren. “I want to be a positive part of other people’s lives with music, you know? I want to be an ambassador to roots music – tip my hat to the past while looking forward at the same time. This music was intended to be played in a way that adds joy to the community. All I want is to restore that purpose, not to complete a transaction.”
Darren says that when you come out to a show, whatever you do, please come talk afterward. “I’m like Willie Nelson. ‘I don’t want fans, I want friends.’ It’s a communal thing.”
Joining Darren on vocals are seasoned full-time band member AVERY WELTER (guitar) along with Avery’s former Shedhouse Trio partners SARAH GRIFFIN (upright bass) and BRADY WALLEN (banjo), both of whom are now full-time members of The Darren Nicholson Band as well.
This expanded full-time lineup brings together a powerhouse of Appalachian musicians with deep roots in traditional bluegrass and a shared passion for music, reflecting Darren’s continuing commitment to evolving his approach to bluegrass.
“I couldn’t be more thrilled . . . this means new sounds and new material. I can’t wait to see what this new chapter holds. And I think folks who come out to see the new band will be as blown away by their music as I am.”
This newest iteration of the band is rooted in the sounds of the Appalachian mountains yet unafraid to explore new territory — with strong instrumental interplay, distinctive vocal harmonies, original material, and the energy of four musicians who are deeply connected to the music.
Doors at 6pm — show starts at 7pm. Suggested cover at the door. Open Jam follows at 9:30pm.
