FROM STAFF REPORTS
TRAVERSE CITY -- Michigan isn't known for churning out bluegrass bands, but Greensky Bluegrass, one of our own, is holding a CD release party at the Loading Dock March 5.
The five-piece group plays traditional bluegrass instruments and has been likened to l970s-era groups like The Band. However, Greensky band members shudder at comparisons.
"We really just try to make music as a group that sounds and feels right to us," said mandolin player Paul Hoffman. He did admit, "It is nice to know that other people really dig it, too."
The new CD, "Five Interstates," features 12 original tracks and one traditional bluegrass song.
At this show, Greensky also will be releasing the first 2-CD set in a series of limited-edition, live releases entitled "All Access: Volume 1." Along with two dozen original tunes, there are covers of tunes by The Beatles, Bob Dylan, and Pink Floyd.
"It's about the jams and the improvisation," said Anders Beck, dobro player. "Our live shows are where we are able to give our original songs a life of their own each night. Many of our songs are explored well in this latest show, as many of them stretch over the 10-15 minute mark."
The group won the 2006 Telluride Bluegrass Festival Band Contest and has been touring nearly nonstop since then, averaging about 170 shows a year, including the first Rothbury Festival.
The name of the band is meant to be a pun -- "green sky" is the opposite of "blue grass."
The show at the Loading Dock, 205 Lake Ave., begins at 10 p.m. for ages 21 and older. Cover is $10.
