John Reischman and the Jaybirds: February 12, 2009

For about the fifth time I saw John Reischman and the Jaybirds play at the Little River Inn nearby, and it once again was a great concert. They are one of the best live groups I've ever seen, and they play bluegrass with a vitality and joy that is awesome to see. The tradition of one vocal mic for a bluegrass group is really not so much a limitation as a feature of the music, as they weave in and out of the forefront both physically and vocally.

Bluegrass harmonies are transcendent, and the Jaybirds do them wonderfully.

Greg Spatz is the "Dreaming Fiddler", as well as a published novelist.

Flat top guitar picker Jim Nunally, whose voice soars in the evocative compositions he and the other Jaybirds write, as well as numerous traditional tunes.

Band leader and mandolinist extraordinaire John Reischman, a native of nearby Ukiah California.

Banjo player Nick Hornbuckle plays in a style that is his own, while notes cascade from his fingers.
Trisha Gagnon not only plays and sings beautifully, but she makes dynamite organic jams that she sells at the shows.

The stage is constant motion during a Jaybirds set.

Live music is a chance to hear the doors of heaven open, and when they do, the Jaybirds just might come flying out! If you get a chance to see them, grab it!