Every Monday night, the NewGrass Radio Show brings together the rich, traditional sounds of bluegrass and the innovative, boundary-pushing music of a new generation of artists. Broadcasted on a station that celebrates the diverse world of bluegrass, the show is dedicated to exploring the intersection of classic influences and modern creativity, with a focus on music that breaks the rules. The tagline “Music Without Rules” perfectly encapsulates the essence of the show, highlighting the genre’s evolution and embracing artists who dare to experiment while maintaining the soul of bluegrass.
The Legacy of New Grass Revival
The name “NewGrass” itself speaks volumes about the show’s mission and the movement it represents. In the 1970s, bands like New Grass Revival—featuring legendary musicians such as Sam Bush, Béla Fleck, and John Cowan—started blending traditional bluegrass with elements of jazz, rock, and other genres, giving rise to a fresh, experimental take on the classic sound. This redefinition of bluegrass paved the way for many contemporary bands, and the NewGrass Radio Show continues to celebrate this evolution, bringing together both the old guard and the trailblazers of modern bluegrass.
Listeners of the show can expect to hear not only the icons of New Grass Revival but also a wide variety of artists who push bluegrass boundaries in unique ways. From musicians influenced by jazz improvisation to those blending Americana and indie folk with bluegrass roots, the show features the best of both worlds.
Authentic Unlimited: A New Holiday Tradition
Just in time for the holidays, the NewGrass Radio Show is spotlighting Authentic Unlimited, a rising bluegrass sensation known for their modern yet heartfelt approach to the genre. Their debut Christmas album, Christmas Time Is Here, brings a new warmth and energy to classic holiday favorites like “White Christmas” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” The band’s signature blend of tight harmonies, bluegrass instrumentation, and soulful delivery infuses these timeless songs with a fresh, festive touch.
Authentic Unlimited is made up of Jerry Cole, Eli Johnston, and Stephen Burwell, all former members of the legendary Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver band, along with mandolin virtuoso Jesse Brock and powerhouse vocalist John Meador. The combination of these exceptional talents has already earned the band notable accolades, including Vocal Group of the Year and New Artist of the Year at the 2023 IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards.
Their new Christmas album is a love letter to the holiday season, capturing its nostalgic magic while showcasing the band’s ability to create something both traditional and innovative. Christmas Time Is Here is the perfect soundtrack for anyone looking to embrace the warmth of the holidays with a touch of bluegrass soul.
A Showcase for the Best in Bluegrass
The NewGrass Radio Show doesn’t just feature established artists—it’s also a platform for emerging talents who are helping shape the future of bluegrass. With its “Music Without Rules” ethos, the show shines a spotlight on the next wave of artists who are reimagining bluegrass in fresh and exciting ways. From the heartfelt harmonies of Authentic Unlimited to the boundary-pushing sounds of young bluegrass innovators, the show provides listeners with an ongoing journey through the heart of contemporary bluegrass music.
Whether you’re an avid bluegrass fan or just beginning to explore the genre, the NewGrass Radio Show offers an engaging mix of old and new, tradition and innovation, keeping the spirit of bluegrass alive while pushing it into uncharted territory.
So tune in every Monday night and discover a world of bluegrass like never before—where the rules are made to be broken, and the music is always evolving.
Authentic Unlimited’s Christmas Time Is Here – A Bluegrass Holiday Masterpiece
Just in time for the holiday season, Authentic Unlimited has released their highly anticipated first Christmas album, Christmas Time Is Here, a collection that seamlessly blends the warmth of traditional holiday music with the soul of bluegrass. Overflowing with rich harmonies, festive instrumentals, and heartfelt performances, this album brings a refreshing new touch to classic Christmas favorites, making it the perfect soundtrack for the season.
A Stellar Bluegrass Lineup
Authentic Unlimited is a powerhouse bluegrass and gospel band made up of former members of Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, a highly respected group in the bluegrass world. Jerry Cole, Eli Johnston, and Stephen Burwell—whose musical talents helped define Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver’s distinctive sound—are joined by mandolin virtuoso Jesse Brock and vocal ace John Meador to create a lineup that’s as authentic as it is groundbreaking.
Their deep roots in traditional bluegrass are evident in every note, but Authentic Unlimited isn’t afraid to stretch the boundaries of the genre. The group’s innovative approach to bluegrass allows them to breathe new life into holiday classics, giving fans both the familiar comfort of well-loved songs and a fresh, heartfelt interpretation that makes them feel new again.
Holiday Classics, Bluegrass-Style
The album Christmas Time Is Here includes a blend of beloved holiday tunes, from the nostalgic beauty of “White Christmas” to the warmth of “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas.” These classics are reimagined through Authentic Unlimited’s bluegrass lens, with velvety harmonies, intricate instrumental arrangements, and infectious energy that will have listeners tapping their toes and singing along.
The title track, “Christmas Time Is Here,” sets the tone for the album with its gentle, soulful rendition, showcasing the band’s ability to bring out the emotional core of the song. Each track on the album carries a sense of familiarity while offering something uniquely fresh. Whether it’s the joyful spirit of “Jingle Bells” or the reflective beauty of “Silent Night,” Authentic Unlimited’s performances resonate with authenticity and warmth.
A Legacy of Excellence
For fans of Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, the transition to Authentic Unlimited feels like a natural evolution, as the band continues to push bluegrass forward while keeping the essence of the genre alive. Their impressive accolades—such as Vocal Group of the Year and New Artist of the Year at the 2023 IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards—speak to their remarkable talent and the fresh energy they bring to the bluegrass scene.
Producer Jerry Salley, a highly respected songwriter and musician in the Nashville scene, praised the band’s journey and evolution. “When Doyle Lawson announced his retirement, I saw an opportunity for his talented Quicksilver members to carry the torch forward,” Salley said. “Adding Jesse Brock and John Meador to the lineup created something that is as authentic as it is unlimited.”
A Heartfelt Holiday Experience
Christmas Time Is Here is not just an album—it’s a celebration of the holiday spirit and the connection we all share through music. From the intimate performances to the joyful celebrations, this album evokes the magic of the season and the warmth of gathering with loved ones.
Whether you’re curling up by the fire or hosting a holiday gathering, Christmas Time Is Here offers the perfect soundtrack to create lasting memories. It’s an album that feels both timeless and fresh, beautifully capturing the essence of Christmas through the lens of bluegrass music.
Authentic Unlimited has set a new standard for holiday albums with Christmas Time Is Here, making it a must-have for bluegrass fans and holiday music enthusiasts alike. It’s a love letter to the season, infused with the heart and soul of bluegrass, and an album that will undoubtedly be enjoyed for many holiday seasons to come.