Spring Creek: Playing on the Top of the World

Though one of their trademark songs is “My Love is Way Up on a Mountain,” the young members of Spring Creek have good reason to feel high lately, even when they're doing their picking at ground level.

Within relatively short order, they've won two coveted Bluegrass competitions—Telluride and RockyGrass—and are the first Colorado band to be signed by Virginia powerhouse Rebel Records.

One way Spring Creek has come to the forefront is through an intriguing mix of original material, classics, and re-interpretations: “We choose songs that suit our style,” says guitarist Taylor Sims. "I enjoy the pilgrimage...learning songs the way they've been played for years and years, staying close to tradition. But a lot of other, different kinds of songs can also fit into the traditional Bluegrass style if they're done really well. We try hard to do each song justice, with authentic Bluegrass-type harmonies and arrangements."

Hence the title of their first release, “Rural and Cosmic Bluegrass.” The cuts span the territory from “I Wonder Just Where You Are Tonight” and “Blue Ridge Cabin Home” to “Clinch Mountain Freak Out.” And though they credit the bands Country Gazette and Hot Rize as their main influences, you're likely to hear a Gillian Welch or Elton John cover squeezed among the traditional fare.

The members met in music school in Texas, but currently call Lyons, Colorado, home. They're especially interested in introducing Bluegrass to new audiences, and vice versa.   Reviewers tend to concur: “Spring Creek has redefined what can be accomplished on acoustic instruments,” writes Chris Kelly. “They're an act not to be missed, as their constant live performances have allowed them to become a tight-knit musical ensemble with real chemistry onstage. With its energy and adrenaline, the band can thrust itself into an acoustic frenzy.”

Another critic has dubbed them “high-intensity high lonesome.” They're clearly high on their music. But these days, they're far from lonesome.

--Dale Short, carrolldaleshort.com

Check out music from Spring Creek Bluegrass Band below, and get ready to see 'em on the mountain at Beartrap 2011!

"Shenandoah Breakdown", live with Peter Rowan in Dillon, CO:

"Natural To Be Gone", live at last year's Flatwater Folk Festival: