Album Notes

This Fredericksburg, Virginia-based bluegrass band checks in with their debut album, "New Day Dawning". The song collection includes a toe-tapping mix of 4 originals, 3 instrumentals and several bluegrass standards. Veteran singer/songwriter and band leader, Pat Ritchie, assembled a stellar line-up of instrumentalists for this album including band members Bill Hensley, known for his melodic banjo style; Keith Mellinger, a dynamic & versatile guitar flat-picker; and Gary Phillips, who is known for his reliably smooth & steady bass technique. The lead vocals are performed by Pat Ritchie in her heartfelt and compelling vocal style.

The original songs (written by Ritchie) on this album include "Nelson County Flood", the harrowing true tale of tragedy caused by Hurricane Camille in 1969; "Close To Your Heart", an upbeat ode to a life-long partner & "Remember Me Well", a song of longing and loss. "I'm Waiting For My Lord" is an optimistic look at the after-life written by Bill Hensley/Pat Ritchie.

Several guest artists were brought in for some special touches: Mark Clifton is amazing on Resonator guitar & Ed Dickerson rocks on the fiddle. The harmony vocalists include all of the band members, plus special guests Pam Berumez, Sandi Prince & Jeff Covert. This cast of back-up singers give the vocal tracks a good measure of extra depth & feeling.

The end result? An enchanting & uplifting bluegrass journey!