Details:
**Steep Canyon Rangers: New Album Release and Musical Journey**
For over two decades, Steep Canyon Rangers have been heralds of the Carolina sound, and their latest album, *Morning Shift*, released on September 8, 2023, further solidifies their status as influential songwriters in Americana music. This record, their 14th studio release, was recorded at the historic Hickory Nut Gap Inn in Bat Cave, NC, providing an organic and collaborative atmosphere for the band to honor their roots while exploring new musical territories.
The album opens with "Hominy Valley," reflecting on the living history of their West Asheville neighborhood, captured through a narrative lens that parallels the band's own musical evolution. The Rangers emphasize the importance of authenticity and creative trust in their songwriting. New member Aaron Burdett, an award-winning singer-songwriter, adds a fresh emotional depth, blending traditional bluegrass with neo-traditional interpretations.
Supported by Grammy-winning producer Darrell Scott, the recording process was described as a communal "recording camp," fostering an environment conducive to creative experimentation. With their diverse influences from both the Appalachian and Piedmont regions of North Carolina, the band continues to transcend the boundaries of bluegrass.
Steep Canyon Rangers, consisting of Graham Sharp, Mike Guggino, Aaron Burdett, Nicky Sanders, Mike Ashworth, and Barrett Smith, have received numerous accolades throughout their career, including a Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album and multiple nominations. Their commitment to storytelling and musical authenticity makes *Morning Shift* a quintessential example of modern North Carolina artistry.
