The Holmes Brothers

When asked to describe their musical style, The Holmes Brothers lean toward Southern roots music. Guitarist Wendell Holmes, bassist Sherman Holmes and drummer Willie "Popsy" Dixon want to avoid the blues tag, simply because their music is much more-it encompasses gospel, blues, soul, country and R&B, all wrapped in a richly experienced, seamless and unique package. A distinctive feature of the Holmes Brothers' music is their three-part vocal harmonies. In addition to the band's superb instrumental work, Sherman's stable baritone, Wendell's growling shout and Popsy's lilting falsetto join to create a solid ensemble. It is also rare to have three soul-harmony singers act as their own back-up band. The Holmes boys learned to sing in church in their hometown of Christchurch, Virginia, and learned to play by listening to the radio. They take elements from both religious and nonreligious music to make their sound. Despite what some call a late start, the Holmes Brothers have, and continue to gain, recognition and acclaim from around the world. They have recorded six albums, have received a New York Music Award for best blues artists in 1992, and have toured the world extensively. They also have the distinction of being the first American artists to record an album for Peter Gabriel's Real World label.

  -- LG