Lonesome River Band

The Lonesome River Band brings a contemporary sound to traditional bluegrass music. Exceptional songwriting from lead singer and bass player Ronnie Bowman coupled with his vocal and instrumental prowess characterize the group's abilities. The past five years have brought the band nearly unrivalled success in the bluegrass music industry, owing greatly to the leadership of Bowman and Sammy Shelor, awarded the 1995 International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) male vocalist and banjo player of the year, respectively. Sammy Shelor was again recognized for his outstanding talent when named 1996 IBMA banjo player of the year. The additions of mandolin player and tenor singer Don Rigsby, and national flat-picking guitar champion Kenny Smith effectively complete the lineup. Tight vocal harmonies and instrumental virtuosity have allowed the Lonesome River Band to produce critically-acclaimed recordings rendering them a virtual benchmark in bluegrass and acoustic music. The 1992 release Carrying the Tradition debuted at the number one position on the "Bluegrass Unlimited" album chart and was named IBMA album of the year. Remaining in the position for five months, the album was only challenged by its successor, Old Country Town, which in turn occupied the position for six months. On the heels of this phenomenal success was the release of Bowman's solo project, Cold Virginia Night, which in comparable fashion took the number one spot. This recording, ultimately named 1995 IBMA album of the year, featured combined efforts from members of the Lonesome River Band as well as guest appearances by such notable artists as Tony Rice, Del McCoury and Alison Krauss.

  -- CW