Bluegrass’s Dual Delights: Nick Chandler and Delivered Unveil Two New Singles
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Bluegrass fans, get ready for a treat. The Western North Carolina group Nick Chandler and Delivered is back with not just one, but two new singles, each pulling from a different side of the band’s musical heart. The new songs, “Hazel Creek” and “Follow the Leader,” show off the group’s range, from their knack for hard-driving traditional bluegrass to their talent for delivering soulful gospel.
“Hazel Creek”: A Historic Stroll Through the Hills
First up is “Hazel Creek,” a high-energy track that feels like a love letter to classic bluegrass. What makes this one so special is its history: the song was penned by none other than legendary songwriters Tom T. Hall and Dixie Hall. For the first time ever, this classic is available on streaming and digital platforms.
Nick Chandler and Delivered bring their A-game to the track. The mandolin work is sharp, the banjo drives the beat forward, and the surprise addition of clawhammer banjo at the end gives it a unique, old-time feel. Nick Chandler’s lead vocals are strong and clear as he tells the story of a man’s journey through the hills to bring a daisy to his love. It’s a simple, romantic tale told with the kind of musical energy that will have you tapping your foot from start to finish. It’s pure bluegrass charm, through and through.
“Follow the Leader”: A Timeless Message of Faith
On the gospel side, the band delivers a powerful message with “Follow the Leader.” This mid-tempo song, originally written by the great Dottie Rambo, brings together stunning harmonies with an inspiring message of faith. The Whites previously covered the tune, and Nick Chandler and Delivered now bring their own spin to it, blending bluegrass instrumentation with a Southern gospel feel.
The song’s lyrics about following God to make it to the “other side” are delivered with a sincere and heartfelt passion that will resonate with listeners. The band’s tight harmonies shine here, creating a full, rich sound that is both comforting and uplifting. It’s a timeless song that feels just as relevant today as it ever has, and the band’s rendition feels both fresh and respectful of its powerful message.
Delivering the Goods
Nick Chandler and Delivered have built a name for themselves with their unique sound, and these new singles perfectly showcase their abilities. The band features Nick Chandler on mandolin and vocals, Gary Trivette on bass, Jake Burrows on banjo, and Spencer Atkinson on guitar. With “Hazel Creek” and “Follow the Leader,” they continue to prove their talent for honoring the traditions of bluegrass while adding their own distinct touch.
The band is currently in the studio working on their next album, which will feature both of these new songs, as well as their previous single “Never Did No Wanderin’,” a reimagined version of the folk favorite from the cult classic film A Mighty Wind. With this new release, Nick Chandler and Delivered give us a taste of what’s to come, and it’s clear they have something special in store for their fans.