Athens-based acoustic group The Kenney Blackmon String Band updates a traditional genre with fresh rhythms. The mix of multigenerational perspectives and modern lyricism excites long-time Americana listeners and invites new audiences per the band’s infusion of hard-driving fiddle, syrupy balladry and syncopated jazz. With Jason Kenney on vocals, guitar, mandolin and banjo; Noel Blackmon on vocals, guitar and mandolin; David Blackmon on fiddle; and Chris Enghauser on double bass, KBSB provides unique arrangements of classic folk tunes, original dirt-stomping instrumentals, cry-to-sleep love anthems and even rare revivals of songs from the British Isles. Jason and Noel’s voices become instruments themselves with crisp yet whispering solos and humming harmonies. Compositions both covered and new remind us of the tension, sadness and joy of the human experience, felt by our ancestors and to touch our offspring as well – all to the backdrop of a complex but sturdy foundation supplied by David and Chris.
