Hailing from Duluth, Minnesota Trampled by Turtles have recently emerged as one of the most promising and talented bands making music today. On a rainy Tuesday night they brought their signature brand of bluegrass to Austin for a sold out show at The Parish.
It may seem easy to classify TBT as a bluegrass band, but when you actually listen to their music and see them live it becomes clear that their sound is actually complex and unique blend of many different styles. Instrumentally they have a fairly traditional bluegrass lineup with mandolin, fiddle, banjo, guitar, and bass. With these instruments they are able to play extremely fast and rowdy tunes, yet can switch on a moments notice to a slow and thoughtful song. Dave Simonett's songwriting and vocals are reminiscent of The Avett Brothers and Townes Van Zant at times, and blend with the music to create a sound that is sort of a blend of bluegrass, Americana, and folk. With a mixture of songs both old and new TBT played their hearts out for an eager and loving audience at The Parish on Tuesday, proving that they were more than happy to be back in Austin. - Neil Ferguson