Mustered Courage is a four piece modern bluegrass band from Melbourne, Australia. They might have the fundamentals of bluegrass, but they have definitely given the genre a facelift with their unique style and sound. Dubbed newgrass, they have brought an alternative edge to the bluegrass scene and have been energizing crowds across the country with their big harmonies and sweet pickings. It would be too limiting to categorize this band as bluegrass because their modern sound blends in everything form country, alternative, and rock. There is something for everyone to enjoy and connect with.
Band Members:
- Nick Keeling: Vocals/Banjo
- Julian Abrahams: Vocals/ Guitar
- Josh Bridges: Vocals/ Bass
- Paddy Montgomery: Mandolin/Vocals
Mustered Courage have recently released their sophomore album, Powerlines and whether you are a bluegrass aficionado or searching for that new music to add to your playlist, this is the album for you. The songs will take you on a musical journey and it starts right off with the energetic upbeat track of Standing By Your Side. You will find yourself immediately toe tapping as a smile comes across your face as you are excited for this new album.
Cruel Alibis is an amazing song with emotionally driven lyrics that starts off with a sweet serenade style and then picks up to the addition of the picking that has a voice of its own, creating emotions with each note.
Behind the Bullet has a nice country intro and the powerful vocals are really highlighted as they create a Southern style swagger. It has a dynamic string picking solo that gets you fully charged as the rhythm is gliding through your body. Another great song is the track Rosa featuring Kasey Chambers and her voice brings a great warm welcoming tone to the storytelling tale. The heartwarming song, My Hometown swirls a nostalgic air as it has you longing for a return to home, the place where your heart truly lies.
Allegheny takes it up a notch and gets you fully charged with the fierce string picking intro. Once again the strings take on their own emotion and voice which I find captivating. It really will have you in awe on this track as you revel in the precision and meticulous craft of their musicianship.
Towin the Chain is the highlight of the vocals of this band as they deliver a soul touching tale a-capella style that is powerful and impressive. The harmonies just grab a hold of you. Southern Style is just like it sounds a true ode to southern style and you can feel the charm come to life in this song.
The title track Powerlines is sure to stand out and it has a very alternative edge to it. The song brings to the forefront, the versatility of this band and it could easily be the track that draws non-bluegrass listeners into the wonderful world of Mustered Courage. It has an Americana folk feel as the vocals and lyrics wrap around you to make that emotional connection.
Go To Hell has a high energy beat track and you can’t help but feel charged. Its rhythm enters you and is like a rush of adrenaline to your soul. The strings are spectacular on this track and will have you in admiration of their picking. The vocals have a great rough rawness that is the perfect edge to this song.
Miss My Ways is another one of my favorite tracks as the vocals bring depth to the well written lyrics that are emotionally driven and soulful. It has a catchy chorus that blends so well with the strings. Old Steam Train has a big country sound with a honkytonk vibe. When you listen to it, you can almost picture yourself rockin on the front porch as you reminisce about train adventures of the past, thirsting for a new ride.
The final track Still Shinin is the perfect finale to this album. It has true fusion of traditional bluegrass with modern flair. It might be the last song on the album but it has a mighty large sound. Just enough to have you press replay on the album and start your love affair with Mustered Courage all over again.
You can pick up the album on iTunes, Amazon, or the physical copy through http://www.traviannarecords.com/. Make sure to also visit their social media sites and stay up to date on their latest news. Mustered Courage are currently on tour in the US so visit their Tour Page and make sure to get yourself to a show. I think they have a couple Northern California performance so we will see if we can bring you some coverage or an interview.
~ Marisol
Upcoming Tour Dates:
Information & Links:
- Website: http://www.musteredcourage.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/musteredcourage
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/MusteredCourage
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/MusteredCourage
- iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/powerlines/id894015977
- Amazon: http://bit.ly/PowerlinesAmazonMP3
- http://www.traviannarecords.com/
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