So I know of Chris Thile’s legendary background, but I’ve not seen the Punches before, and I heard they’re not really brothers.
So…what’s the show like…crazy must-see bluegrass music; good with a vodka drink; or something more fellow, but still fine?
They’re not brothers but a group of awesome musicians playing traditional style bluegrass while throwing their little quirks in as well. I don’t know all their musical backgrounds but the guitarist, Chris Eldridge is son of Ben Eldridge from seldom scene. I wouldn’t necessarily call them a party like a late night yonder set but they are NOT TO BE MISSED! Last years happy hour set on thursday at the Elks Park stage was the perfect way to get the fest movin.
each member of the band are virtuoso’s. IMHO they are not to be missed .
listen to the albums on spotify, youll like em.
Agreed with everyone else. They are always one of the most fun sets. Every member of that group is just stunning to watch.
I saw them at Rockygrass last summer…very good and noticeably well dressed group. Seemed to me that they intend to bring some old timey, gentlemanly class back to the bluegrass scene…throw your jacket down on a mud puddle to let a lady cross without getting her shoes dirty type of fellas…very clean bluegrass…every note played with a purpose. Awesome band…can’t wait to see them again!
I am literally going to be wearing a sign around my neck all weekend long that says
“will show my breasts for late night Punch Brothers tickets”
And I’m a dude.
All weekend? What happens if you get your ticket on Thursday?
Seriously, though, these guys are all fantastic musicians. Every one of them is brilliant. That being said, sometimes I think they get too good, if that makes any sense. I’ve seen shows where they played one of my favorite sets of the year, and other times it feels like they’re trying too hard to impress someone. They want people to know they can play classical music as well as Yo-Yo Ma. That being said, it would take something absolutely mind blowing for me to miss their main stage set. I’m talking a Del and Sam workshop with special guest Bryan Sutton, Bela Fleck, Andy Hall, Drew Emmitt, Billy Nershi, Tim O’Brien, Peter Rowan and Andy Thorn. And since the workshops are generally done by 5:30, that won’t be happening.
IMO, they are right up there with The House Band in terms of how much I look forward to their sets each year. Technically, they are just as talented as each member of The House Band, but their style is a bit more out there. They have some punkish elements in some of their songs, but they also released a 40+ minute original classical composition scored for a bluegrass quartet as their debut.
You really, really need to check them out:
You Are - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CGhjUAfFRs
More recent, traditionally structured song
Blind Leaving The Blind, excerpt from first movement - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-CKeymGPro
Part of the above mentioned composition
Yard Gnome… You will get one… But you are making this kinda fun…
take a listen and decide for yourself :band :pickin :clap :clap :drunk
This sounds like an incredible band…I will definitely not miss the brothers!
So good that (true story) during their main set on Sunday last year, my wife fainted and had to be stretchered off the field! :eek
Their set at Elk’s Park last year was one of the highlights of the fest for me.
I have but one word to say:
AHOY!