Fireside Collective

Bonus video footage on YouTube! From Brad Davis.

I was wandering through the artist camping area at Rooster Walk, on my way to an interview, when I stumbled on a group of guys picking some tunes.  I recognized a few of the faces and couldn’t put it all together at that moment but it was Fireside Collective warming up for their approaching set.  Their raw musical energy is amazing whether its the middle of the woods or on the main stage at any one of the many festivals and venues they perform at across the country.

From their website: “Quickly blazing a name for themselves with their progressive approach to American folk music, Fireside Collective delights listeners with memorable melodies and contemporary songwriting. Formed in the mountain city of Asheville North Carolina, the band plays original songs on stringed instruments, intended for a modern audience. Following the release of their debut album “Shadows and Dreams”, the band hit the road seeking to engage audiences with their energetic live show built on instrumental proficiency, colorful harmonies, and innovative musical arrangements. 

Well, what do you call it?

“Bluegrass, Newgrass, perhaps Progressive folk…” These are some descriptions mandolinist and songwriter Jesse Iaquinto chooses to identify with. “Depending on where you come from and your experience with folk music, you may think we’re very traditional, or on the other hand, consider us a progressive act. We appreciate both ends of the spectrum and may lie on a different end on any given night.” While roots music lies at the core of the Collective’s songs, a willingness to explore the boundaries and present relevant new material remains fundamental.