Beyond Tradition: Lonesome River Band Embraces “Telegrass” with “Blues”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
The Lonesome River Band has long been a cornerstone of contemporary bluegrass, celebrated for their unwavering commitment to the genre’s roots while consistently pushing its boundaries. Since the early 1990s, sharp-eared fans have noticed a subtle yet distinctive addition to their sound: the “chicken pickin'” snap of a red Telecaster electric guitar, particularly during Sammy Shelor’s fiery jams on “Hobo Blues.” This understated integration of an electric instrument into a predominantly acoustic landscape has always been a quiet declaration of the band’s adventurous spirit. Now, with their latest single, “Blues,” released via Mountain Home Music Company, that distinctive Telecaster sound steps out of the shadows and into the spotlight, offering a tantalizing preview of their anticipated “Telegrass” project.
While the electric guitar’s presence was a mere hint in their earlier 2025 single, “I’m on to You,” “Blues” sees it engaging in a lively conversation with the more traditional bluegrass instruments – the fiddle, the mandolin, and Shelor’s signature banjo. This isn’t just an experiment; it’s a deliberate and joyous fusion. Sammy Shelor, the band’s esteemed leader, a five-time IBMA Banjo Player of the Year, and a recipient of the prestigious Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass, describes “Blues” as a refreshing departure. “We’ve all had the ‘Blues’ in our lives,” Shelor notes, “but this Adam Wright song sees the ‘Blues’ in a whole different light. It’s a light-hearted break from the sad songs — one that we have a ton of fun with. Featuring our good friend Rod Riley on the Telecaster, it comes from our upcoming ‘Telegrass’ project.”
And indeed, “Blues” is anything but sorrowful. It’s an energetic, playful track that injects a dose of levity into the band’s repertoire. The song’s structure is particularly engaging, featuring a dynamic instrumental “breakdown” section that sets up a defiant and optimistic bridge: “I’ve never been better, and I kind of hope that I have these blues forever.” This lyrical twist cleverly subverts the conventional understanding of “the blues,” transforming it from a lament into a state of contentedness. The extended outro is where the “Telegrass” concept truly shines, with the Telecaster trading vibrant, intricate licks with the banjo and fiddle, showcasing a seamless blend of electric and acoustic textures. This interplay is not just skillful; it’s genuinely exciting, demonstrating how seemingly disparate elements can coalesce to create something fresh and innovative.
The Lonesome River Band has maintained its reputation as one of bluegrass music’s most respected and innovative ensembles for decades. Under Shelor’s leadership, the group continually seeks new avenues for acoustic music, yet always with a deep respect for the genre’s foundations. Their ability to integrate stellar lead vocalists with impressive instrumental talents has consistently produced a trademark sound that resonates deeply with their devoted fanbase. “Blues” is a testament to this ongoing evolution, proving that a band can honor its heritage while boldly exploring new sonic territories. It’s a clear signal that the forthcoming “Telegrass” project will be a significant and captivating chapter in the Lonesome River Band’s illustrious career, one that is sure to perk up the ears of both traditional bluegrass aficionados and those open to its exciting new frontiers.