No Depression Reviews "All The Way"

Nu-Blu: Bluegrass, Soul, Jesus and Jones

Depending on your musical and religious persuasion, just mentioning George Jones and Jesus in the same sentence is either blasphemy or high praise. Hang it on a bluegrass rack, get one of the most revered soul men of all times to sing on it, and you've got a genre bender of epic proportions. “One made wine, the other one drank it,” Nu-blu's Carolyn Routh sings on “Jesus and Jones,” from their latest, All the Way.

“One spoke the gospel,” Sam Moore answers, his magnificent voice still throbbing with churchy soul, as Routh softly replies, “The other one sang it.” The surviving member of Sam and Dave (“Hold On I'm Coming,” “Soul Man,”) was a fan of Jones' music as well as a friend, and quickly agreed to honor him in this first paring of soul and bluegrass.

Siler City's Nu-blu considers themselves a bluegrass band, using traditional instruments and a frontwoman who sounds like Alison Krauss. “I grew up around bluegrass,” Routh says. “Being from central North Carolina, you don't really have a choice, its all around you, all the time.” The band does mostly originals, but has no problem going off the rails doing Pat Benatar's "Shadows Of The Night” stripped down, with only two guitars and a mandolin. "We don't take a  rock song or an old country song, and say, 'Hey, let's make this bluegrass.' We just take the song and we play the song like we're feeling it, and it's meaningful to us."

 The band admits that when they first started out 11 years ago, they  felt a real need to conform to the industry standard.  “We're comfortable in our own skin now," Routh  says confidently,  "able to step out of those boundaries, spread our wings and say, 'We love this bluegrass, but this is how we're feeling this song.' ”

Grant  Britt

TURNTABLE TUESDAY - ALL THE WAY - Nu-Blu

Purchase on iTunes

Purchase on Amazon

That’s What Makes the Bluegrass Blue (featuring 5-time Grammy winner Rhonda Vincent) is the perfect tune to kick off the ten tracks from ALL THE WAY – the fifth album by Nu-Blu. And while you may or may not have heard much from this group previously, I promise you this CD will change what you thought bluegrass was suppose to be.

Taking a cue from the Queen of Bluegrass, Rhonda Vincent, Nu-Blu educates us in how country and bluegrass are two interwoven threads creating a seamless piece of musical fabric. A Little Good News is as relevant today as when Anne Murray first recorded the song in 1983. Relevance aside, the amazing voice of Carolyn Routh makes the track timeless and a perfect addition to this CD.

The remaining tracks from Rhythm of the Train through Heavy Cross To Bear weave an invisible ‘stitch in the ditch’ to create a well-designed quilt of comfort and coming home. But the first single from ALL THE WAY is what pulls everything together. Jesus and Jones is that one piece of fabric that with the first line you know the quilt (album) would be lacking without. The effervescent decorative applique comes from the addition of Sam Moore (Soul Man legend) sharing the lead vocals. While the last person you might associate with bluegrass, Moore’s classic tone blends well with the undercurrent of the roots that make ALL THE WAY sure to become a keeper.

I'm tipping my hat....

Review: The grass may be Blue, but it’s also Nu…

One of the things I enjoy about this current chapter of my life is coming across new (to me) songwriters, singers and groups. I’ve learned about many such folks recently and the newest one to me is a group called Nu-Blu. Like I said, they’re new to me- they’ve been around since 2003 so seasoned bluegrass/Americana folk may know their entire output.

Nu-Blu is anchored by the husband/wife team of Daniel and Carolyn Routh. Multi-instrumentalist Levi Austin and mandolinist Austin Koerner round out the quartet. The bio on their website mentions influences like Flatt, Scruggs and Martin, as you would expect from any bluegrass band worth their salt from North Carolina, but also modern torchbearer Alison Krauss. It turns out to be a winning combination- particularly if you prefer the influence leaning toward the Krauss side of the ledger. The group has a new project just out called All the Way and it should prove to have a pretty decent shelf life.

The disc contains one instrumental and 9 vocal tracks varying in tempo and texture, but staying predominately on the contemporary edges of bluegrass. The quality is high throughout the work. The vocals are strong, harmonies tight and instrumentals well done. In fact, the things I found to grouse about were strictly personal preferences about technical things. The CD opens up with a solid ‘grasser “That’s What Makes the Bluegrass Blue“. I was listening to this initially without credits and though the harmonies took unexpected turns at first, there was something familiar about the sound. It turned out that the familiar sound was the voice of none other than the Queen of Bluegrass Music, Rhonda Vincent. Her voice, as flavor, adding to Carolyn’s was absolutely perfect for this song.

Each of the songs bear listening, but I will highlight three. The fourth cut (All the Way) is a song written by Carl Jackson and Allison Mellon. After a couple of hearings, the lyrics hit me. What a powerful story of a woman’s life and the long reach of a rebellious act of youth in three snapshots!

Forgiveless (Louisa Branscomb) is a gorgeous thing with the instruments becoming the forgiveless river about which Carolyn is singing. This almost requires headphones in order to be sure to not miss a single note or word.

If you begin with a Rhonda Vincent guest spot, how do you end? How about Sam Moore of R&B’s Sam & Dave fame dropping in to sing a song about Jesus & George Jones? Musically, Carolyn starts with a very strong, soul vocal on the first verse. Sam answers in the same vocal register as only Sam Moore can. Lyrically, contrasting Jesus, the one who was both fully God and fully human with no sin, and George Jones, who was fully human, with plenty of sin on public display, but who found peace in Jesus is a wonderfully written song (Cheri Hefner/Rick Tiger). In the view of the writer/singer, God has sent Jesus for our salvation, but He has also shown His glory in people like George Jones. Flawed? Yes. In need of mercy and grace? Certainly. Just like all of us? Most definitely. Could the grace of God reach Jones? He did. This is one large way God gives the rest of us encouragement and hope.

Here are the lyrics of verse 1 & the chorus.

“One made wine, the other one drank it. One spoke the Gospel, the other one Sang it. One gave salvation the other one needed. One was faithful, the other one cheated.

Amazing Grace and his sweet sound. I was raised and live by it now. From the cross to a field of stone, I thank God for Jesus and Jones.”

You’re going to have to watch the video to get the rest. Watch it HERE.

The album is even and solid from start to finish and I would recommend it to anyone who likes well done music of most any genre. When we look back, this may not be Nu-Blu’s magnum opus. I think they have something even greater coming. I also think, however, that All the Way will be the foundation on which that will be built.

Review: Nu-Blu soars on new bluegrass album 'All The Way'

Bluegrass group Nu-Blu will release their newest album "All The Way" on September 16, and this record is an asset to any music listener's CD collection.

They will release it via their record label, Rural Rhythm Records. It opens with "That's What Makes The Bluegrass Blue," a dynamic vocal collaboration with bluegrass queen Rhonda Vincent. It is followed by the moving ballad "A Little Good News," where lead singer Carolyn Routh displays her gentle and heavenly vocals. They continue with the upbeat "Rhythm of the Train," which features strong harmonies and rich bluegrass instrumentation. The title track, the soothing"All The Way" is yet another crystalline vocal by Carolyn, where the listener could easily recall Grammy-winning vocalist Alison Krauss. "Black Jack," which runs a little over two minutes, showcases the band's instrumental prowess. "Isn't She" is a mellow yet smooth vocal, while "Forgiveness" is a haunting ballad that will give one goosebumps. "It's Not That Cold In Montana " features stunning violin and the addicting banjo-playing on there helps elevates it to a higher level. "Heavy Cross To Bear" is a pure and calming vocal performance by Carolyn. It closes with the remarkable track, "Jesus and Jones," which is worth the price of the CD alone. They collaborate with a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, "The Soul Man" himself, Mr. Sam Moore. The Verdict Overall, Nu-Blu delivers on their newest studio effort. It is warm, acoustic and backed with high-quality lyrics, instrumentation and vocals. All four musicians have done a superb job. Well done. It garners 4 out of 5 stars. For more information on Nu-Blu and their latest album All The Way, check out their Facebook page or website at www.nu-blu.com

Read more: http://www.digitaljournal.com/a-and-e/music/review-nu-blu-soars-on-new-bluegrass-album-all-the-way/article/402941#ixzz3DOmgfHFM

Song To Stage Songwriter Workshop Series Announced

Grammy winning, multiple hit songwriter Louisa Branscomb teams up with award winning band Nu-Blu to produce innovative new songwriter workshop series, "Song to Stage" ™

Nashville, TN( August, 2014) The Song To Stage collaborative announces the launch of a new songwriter development program,  guided by Grammy winning songwriter Louisa Branscomb, along with the award winning bluegrass-Americana group Nu-Blu.  Song To Stage is a first of its kind, an innovative songwriter-artist-production workshop designed to advance the personal and professional needs of the songwriter from all angles of the creative and business process.

"We are extremely excited about the curriculum we have created for songwriters of all levels, the unusual and special setting of the Outer Banks, and most of all, to be working with Louisa - who is often called "The" bluegrass songwriter. Her work goes way beyond bluegrass though - and she is an inspired writer and teacher.  We love working with Louisa, and I've learned why some people say "Louisa IS songwriting" -Daniel Routh of Nu-Blu.

Louisa comments, "After 35 years of teaching and mentoring songwriters, I am very excited about this new venture in combining forces with Nu-Blu to expand the usual cirrculum of my workshops. Our retreat-styled workshops, set in the beautiful Outer Banks of NC,  preserve the inspirational setting and emphasis on personal creativity that are a hallmark of my Mastercraft series at the Woodsong Writer Retreat.  At the same time, the skills that the members of Nu-Blu bring allow us to adding tracks that expose the participant to all aspects of songwriter development from inspiration to craft, and pitching to recording, promoting, and performance. Having songwriters and artists together - with the amazing breadth of skills that Nu-Blu brings - gives this workshop wonderful new possibilities to strengthen the areas that each participant wishes to work on."

The first workshop in the series will be held from October 30th to November 2nd, 2014, with accommodations on the stunningly beautiful Outer Banks of North Carolina. The workshop fee is much less than most workshops, and even includes lodging in the beautiful vacation destination of Manteo, NC.  Song To Stage will be held at the old courthouse in the downtown area and include a special performance by Nu-Blu and Louisa.   The “Branscomb - Blu” team will also be signing up various festivals throughout the US to host workshops in the series that are tailored for each event or festival.

Louisa continues "Being a professional or serious songwriter has a much wider challenge than "Just" writing songs. Most writers have strengths in some areas, such as inspiration and creating a basically good song, but relative weaknesses in other areas,  such as editing to full completion,  recording an effective demo,artist relations, pitching, or even how to effectively sing their song in songwriter settings. This workshop is designed to provide a full curriculum responsive to individual needs, and as a basis for building skills in subsequent workshops. We keep our classes small so that we can be flexible and attuned to individual needs and goals, while also building community and mutual support that songwriters need for their work "
 
RESERVATIONS ARE NOW OPEN FOR SONG TO STAGE 1: 

• RETREAT DATES: October 30 - November 2, 2014.
• FEE: $525 per person INCLUDES 3 nights lodging in or around Manteo, NC.
• REGISTRATION DEADLINE (full tuition required): Oct 4, 2014
• ACCEPTANCE: You will receive email confirmation of your place in the workshop from Daniel Routh of Nu-Blu.
• For more info or to reserve your space CLICK HERE or visit www.songtostage.com

About Louisa:
Louisa is a performing musician and recorded songwriter (180 recorded songs), with numerous chart hits by artists including Claire Lynch, Dale Ann Bradley, John Denver, Alison Krauss, Janet McGarry, Daughters of Bluegrass, and hits from her own solo recordings.  She is Founder and Director of Woodsong Farm Writers Retreat, where for 25 years she has evolved her unique program of experiential retreats, Branscomb Mastercraft. Her approach combines the inspiration of the rural mountain setting with her innovative, personalized approach to facilitate songwriters in personal and professional development. Her current series, Beyond Bones: The Soul of the Song, focuses on supporting the unique voice of the songwriter and facilitating the process of deep, authentic writing. With careers in psychology, music, and education, Louisa is interested in cultivating the elements that make for powerful, effective songs.  Pioneering new ways of facilitating songwriting is just Louisa's latest frontier.  She was the first woman to front a band playing banjo, while also providing the original repertoire for the band.  Louisa has served as a role model, mentor and pioneer for songwriters throughout her 45 year professional career. Her current hit, "Dear Sister," (co-written with Claire Lynch) is nominated for the IBMA 2014 Song of the Year.

About Nu-Blu:
Nu-Blu, based in central North Carolina, has been dubbed as one of the most energetic, friendly, and professionally successful new bands in Bluegrass/ Americana. Nu-Blu is comprised of Carolyn, who handles bass and vocals; Levi Austin on vocals and banjo; Austin Koerner, who plays mandolin; and Daniel, who is the band’s Renaissance Man – guitarist, singer, manager, recording engineer, tour coordinator, among many other roles. The group brings its lively and entertaining version of Americana-bluegrass music to audiences across the nation year-round. Their sound acknowledges the traditional institutions that have shaped it, yet is innovative and daring enough to bring a fresh sparkle to contemporary acoustic music that lands them squarely in the forefront of bands blazing the trail in Americana entertainment.  Influences range from the sounds of original bluegrass pioneers like Jimmy Martin and Flatt and Scruggs to rock bands of the 1980’s, and modern contemporary sounds such as Alison Krauss and Union Station.  Nu-Blu’s full, welcoming sounds provide a home for listeners and encourage them to explore new sounds, create personal roots, and imagine music free from labels. Each member of Nu-Blu brings an advanced skill set in one or more areas of professional development and music performance and production to the Song to Stage Curriculum.

Links:

Song To Stage Website:
www.songtostage.com

Facebook:

www.facebook.com/songtostage
 
Artists Websites:

www.louisabranscom.com

www.nu-blu.com

Sam Moore and Nu-Blu Set to Perform September 20th on Fox News’ Huckabee

 The Dynamic Pairing Will Perform Their Brand New George Jones Inspired Single “Jesus and Jones”

Nashville, Tenn. (August 7, 2014) – The legendary “Soul Man” Sam Moore, and the fastest rising act in bluegrass, Nu-Blu continue to generate buzz, as they gear up to perform their brand new George Jones inspired single, “Jesus and Jones” on Fox News’ Huckabee show on September 20th. This must-see performance will be both soulful and bluegrass-flavored. “Jesus and Jones” is the first offering from Nu-Blu’s upcoming album All The Way, which is set for release on September 16. The song was written by Cheri Hefner and Rick Tiger and is NOW AVAILABLE at iTunes, Amazon, Google Plus, Rhapsody and eMusic. “Jesus and Jones” is also available for D.J. download on AirPlay Direct RIGHT NOW by clicking HERE. Also, check out Billboard’s interview with Sam Moore discussing the new single HERE.

This single takes Sam Moore on his first venture into the bluegrass realm, noting that he has already recorded songs in rhythm & blues, jazz, big band, pop, and country. Reaction from bluegrass radio to Moore’s debut performance is already garnering positive reviews.

“You pair one up and coming bluegrass band with one R&B legend, then add a song pairing country music icon, George Jones, with Jesus and you have what has to be the most unique sound in bluegrass today! Nu- Blu’s Carolyn Routh vocally sets up the song “Jesus and Jones” as a mainline bluegrass salute to the late Mr. Jones. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Sam Moore then shows why he is still a “soul man” with his turn at the mic. When their voices blend on the finale it is magic! Totally bluegrass….No….Totally soul….No….Totally great music….YES!,” says Gene Skinner of Great Stuff Radio.

“Carolyn’s vocals align perfectly with Sam Moore’s soulful sound on “Jesus and Jones” as Nu-Blu carves a new notch in their musical achievements.” – Bob Cherry, Cybergrass

“The song is massive!” – Gary Henderson, WAMU-FM – BluegrassCountry

“Sam was a pure delight, and the sincere joy he takes in music, and in having a chance to remember his friend, George Jones, was palpable.” – John Lawless, Bluegrass Today

“This is TOO COOL, … well done!” – Buddy Merriam, Blue Grass Time “…we have the song in rotation as of today.” – Paul Marx, KBON-FM

After garnering multiple showcase performances, including CMA Fest, MerleFest, NAMM, and Folk Alliance, 2014 has already been a momentum-building year. With several new collaborations, including a special feature with the ‘queen of bluegrass’ Rhonda Vincent, this album is sure to go all the way to the top of fan playlists!

Bluegrass Group Nu-Blu Joined By Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Sam Moore For His First Bluegrass Recording on "Jesus & Jones"

"THE LEGENDARY SOUL MAN" SAM MOORE CROSSES MUSICAL GENRES TO PAY TRIBUTE TO COUNTRY ICON AND FRIEND GEORGE JONES

Nashville, TN (July 14, 2014) – "The Legendary Soul Man" Sam Moore, voted one of the 100 top pop voices of all time by Rolling Stone Magazine, joins bluegrass group Nu-Blu as a special guest on their upcoming single release "Jesus & Jones," a song that pays tribute to the late George Jones.

Moore, who had been invited personally by George before he passed away, performed at what became Jones' tribute show "Playin' Possum: The Final No Show" in November of 2013. Sam took no time to agree to participate in recording this song. "I've been a fan of George's music for a long long time and was fortunate enough that we called each other friends," says Moore. "This song honors him and says what we all have felt about him."

Nu-Blu is set to release their latest Rural Rhythm Records single "Jesus & Jones," to radio on July 22nd. The highly anticipated track will serve as the first offering from their forthcoming album, All The Way, due out on September 16.

"We absolutely love this song and its message," says Nu-Blu's Carolyn Routh. "We played the demo for George's widow Nancy Jones and she loved it. With her encouragement we recorded it and just knew we wanted to add a guest vocalist to the recording. Then we thought back to the November tribute show and remembered it was Sam Moore who had just brought the house down. You could see the love he had for George. We connected with Sam and now the recording is done. This is not only Sam's first time ever to record on a bluegrass song, it apparently is the first time anyone from his genre has participated on a bluegrass recording as a featured guest. How cool is that! To have a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member sing on a bluegrass song. Wow, we are just so thrilled and hope that music lovers enjoy it as much as we did making it."

This is Sam Moore's first venture into the bluegrass realm. Over the years, he has crossed over from soul, the genre his hit "Soul Man" named, rhythm & blues, jazz, big band, pop, and country. Sam Moore was nominated for an ACM, and two CMA's for his collaboration with Conway Twitty of "Rainy Night In Georgia" on the Country, Rhythm & Blues album. Their video is considered a classic and one of the top country duets of all time. This new song, a mix of bluegrass and soul will leave fans wanting more.

All The Way will take Nu-Blu creatively into new boundaries. In addition to the duet with Sam Moore, 'queen of bluegrass' Rhonda Vincent is also featured on the album. Come September 16, the world be able to hear all of the new music, and partake in the revolution that is Nu-Blu.

For more information on Nu-Blu, please visit nu-blu.com.

Bluegrass Unlimited Reviews "TEN"

NU-BLU
TEN

Rural Rhythm
RUR 1114

Carolyn Routh, the centerpiece of the band that she and her husband Daniel (vocals and guitar) formed, is a stupendous singer who ranks among the likes of Rhonda Vincent and Claire Lynch. Under her powers, ballads like “Without A Kiss” (co-written by Scott Filson, Michael Mahler, and Bill Filson) and “Shadows Of The Night” (D.L. Byron) heard on Nu-Blu’s latest album Ten (which celebrates this North Carolina-based band’s tenth anniversary) take on an almost transcendent credibility and beauty.

There’s a back-story here that makes her stellar vocal performances all the more inspiring to anyone who has endured serious health issues. In 2003, around the time of Nu-Blu’s inception, Carolyn had a series of strokes that for a while left her unable to talk and barely able to walk. Needless to say, she’s bounced back beautifully. But as is manifest on Ten, Carolyn’s show-stopping pipes and courageous powers of renewal are merely the tip of the iceberg. These ten well-chosen songs also highlight the highly accomplished picking and harmony singing that this four-member ensemble brings to the show.

Along with the Rouths, the band is rounded out by Levi Austin (vocals, banjo, and guitar) and Austin Koerner on mandolin. (Carolyn also doubles on bass.) For these sessions, they were joined by ace fiddlers Ron Stewart and Jim VanCleve. Daniel Routh is a far more low-key and ordinary lead singer than his wife is. Yet he brings quiet earnestness and dignity to moving heartland celebrations like “Eddie’s Garage” and “The Seed.” The entire band also takes a collective star turn on a powerhouse bluegrass instrumental breakdown called “Giant Squid.”

Even if a few of the songs on Ten, such as “Shadows Of The Night,” lean slightly toward the pop end of the spectrum, their power and appeal are unquestionable. (Rural Rhythm, P.O. Box 750, Mt. Juliet, TN 37121, www.ruralrhythm.com.)BA

Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine-Feature Article

Hailing from the abundant bluegrass lands of North Carolina, Nu-Blu was founded in 2003. With three albums, The Grass Still Grows, Nights, and their latest release The Blu-Disc to their credit, the band is quickly making a name for themselves in the bluegrass world. Comprised of Daniel Routh (vocals/guitar), Carolyn Routh (vocals/bass), Levi Austin (vocals/banjo), and their newest member, Austin Koerner (mandolin), Nu-Blu has forged their sound in the fires of tribulation that would have ended most groups. From the two near fatal strokes suffered by Carolyn to the dissolving and subsequent reforming of their recording label, Pinecastle, they have survived the gauntlet of bad breaks and kept right on rolling. The story of how Nu-Blu formed is a tale for the Hallmark Channel. The forming of Nu-Blu is synonymous with how Daniel and Carolyn came together as a couple. Carolyn explains, “In late 2000, I had begun singing with a contemporary Christian trio. Around the same time, Daniel and I met at our local Wal-Mart where he was the grocery manager. He was playing banjo in a band with Donna Hughes at the time. One day, when Daniel was having lunch at my family’s restaurant, he mentioned that he was looking for a guitar player and I retorted that I was looking for a bass player. ‘I’ll play bass,’ he said. ‘I don’t know how, but I’ll learn,’ he replied. Daniel took me to see Lonesome River Band at the Bass Mountain Bluegrass Festival. That was the first bluegrass event I’d been to in many years. Remember, I was a rock-and-roll chick at heart. Lonesome River Band hit the stage wide open. They popped off at least four to five songs nonstop, no talking, no tuning, just straight-up hard-driving ’grass. I was blown away! I never knew bluegrass could have the kind of energy and punch that I got from rock music, but there it was. I was in love. With the realization that playing rock was going to mean late nights, smoky bars, and little to no money, I began to reconsider the logic behind a decision that neither of us felt comfortable about anymore. I asked Daniel if he thought we could put together a bluegrass band. At first, he was reluctant to agree. He says now that he wanted to be sure I was serious. Nu-Blu was up and running, well more like limping in the beginning, but you have to start somewhere. Then my health began to fail. The headaches began to get worse. Then in November they scheduled me for a MRI at a neurological clinic. Two days before the appointment I was hospitalized because I was unable to generally function due to the pain. I had lost my ability to form coherent words and the use of my right side. I was terrified!” Carolyn pauses. “Daniel was there, holding my hand, trying to calm me down, carrying me to the hospital. Early the next morning, Thanksgiving morning, lying in an ER surrounded by a team of neurologists, my blood pressure soared, and I had two strokes. My memories are sketchy and some have come back slowly over time as my brain healed. One memory that is very clear, is the first time I saw Daniel after coming to. Someone said, ‘There’s somebody here to see you,’ and when I looked towards the foot of my bed, there was Daniel. My eyes filled with tears and I wanted to reach out to him. He was my rock. He still is.” Nu-Blu’s backing musicians, Levi and Austin, are excellent musicians. But talent alone will not sustain a group. Band chemistry is a vital element in a group’s success. “Finding the right mix is something that every band struggles with. We feel that we really have something special with both Austin and Levi,” said Daniel. “As for Levi,” Daniel paused. “He helps to shape our sound in so many ways. He is an integral part of our music. His banjo playing speaks for itself, hard-driving on numbers like ‘How Do I Move On.’ He provides a smooth vocal backup on several songs. Levi joined Nu-Blu when he was only 14. Now at 19, he is a former North Carolina State Champion, as well as a first place winner in the youth bluegrass banjo competition at the 2007 Galax Old Fiddlers Convention. He also plays lead guitar on several of the slower songs we do that don’t require the banjo. He is always a vital part of vocal arranging as well as arranging new material. Many of the tracks on ‘Nights’ were engineered by him as well.” “Coming from a jazz and rock background has made Austin a perfect fit for Nu-Blu,” said Carolyn. “He really helps fill out the band’s overall sound.” Daniel agreed, “He pays attention to what else is going on instrumentation-wise and plays just what is needed—no more, no less. Koerner, at only 20, is poised to be one of the next generation’s great mandolin players.” With the untimely demise and subsequent return of Pinecastle Records, Nu-Blu found themselves on a roller coaster, label-wise. Both the band and their record, Nights, rode the waves like a buoy caught in a hurricane. “Nu-Blu has been very blessed with wonderful and supportive family, friends, and fans,” states Carolyn. “While we were devastated, me possibly the most of all, there were friends and colleagues encouraging us to pick up the pieces and go forward. We received so many calls and e-mails. It was overwhelming. “Our publicist, Penni McDaniel of Hope River Entertainment, who had already started the buzz for the Pinecastle release, told us we could do this. Since she’s one of the best in the business, we followed her advice and proceeded. Nights mailed out to radio stations and I held my breath and prayed that the DJs who received them would be kind enough to take a listen. What happened next was phenomenal. We were taping Song Of The Mountains at the Lincoln Theater (Marion, Va.) when we got the first DJ phone call. Before the day was done we had already heard from no less than five DJs via phone and e-mail. The outpouring of support has been absolutely phenomenal.” Two stellar tracks on Nights are cover versions of the Nanci Griffith song “Spin On A Red Brick Floor” and the traditional Irish instrumental “Red Haired Boy.” Says Carolyn, “Daniel and I love music, all music,” stated Carolyn. “We are constantly on the look out for new material to amp up our shows and give our listeners a taste of something different. We were browsing through some of Nanci Griffith’s back catalog when we ran across ‘Spin On A Red Brick Floor.’ We both really loved it and Daniel said it would be a great song to do. From the first time we performed it, audiences have loved it.” From a songwriting perspective, Nu-Blu managed to get a handful of the top bluegrass songsmiths in the business today to contribute. The title track Nights was written by the award-winning bluegrass singer/songwriter Donna Hughes and the songs “Lonesome Mountain” and “Try And Catch The Wind” were written by noted bluegrass and country musician/song-scribe Mark “Brink” Brinkman. “Upon review, these songs where such a perfect fit, I believed they must be included in Nights,” said Carolyn. “We were incredibly fortunate to be able to land these tunes,” Daniel interjects. “‘Nights’ was the song I sang at my grandmother’s funeral in 2007. That’s why it was important to me to record it in her memory, and why it is recorded the exact way it was played at her funeral. I feel especially lucky to have gotten ‘Lonesome Mountain.’ The first time we heard it was at the IBMA conference. Brink had already told us that we could do ‘Try And Catch The Wind’ and we didn’t want to be greedy. Some time later we needed a few more songs to round out the CD and went to his website to see if he had anything new up. There was ‘Lonesome Mountain’ We called him immediately and asked if we could record it. The moment of truth was the first time that I sent him a rough mix. Thankfully, he loved it. You always want the writer to like what you did with their song.” Nu-Blu doesn’t shy away from their Christian faith, recognized in many of their songs. As such they have found themselves on the front lines of the debate between those that believe gospel bluegrass should be considered as sub-genre of bluegrass, and those that feel that the gospel element is intrinsic to bluegrass music. “The acceptance and inclusion of gospel music on even secular bluegrass albums is part of the charm of bluegrass in general,” said Carolyn. “No other genre of music is this all inclusive. Bluegrass artists are free to record an all gospel CD, followed by an all-secular CD of traditional murder ballads if you so wish,” adds Daniel. “Gospel is at the heart of bluegrass music. The history of bluegrass music has its roots firmly ensconced in gospel music—with Celtic and British folk music mixed in as well.” Nu-Blu’s latest album, The Blu-Disc, just released on Pinecastle Records is already proving to be another success for the band, and is positively impacting the record label’s re-launch. The album includes special guests: Rob Ickes (resonator guitar), Greg Luck (fiddle), along with a guest harmony vocal performance by Christy Reid on the single “Other Woman’s Blues.” A song from little-known Nashville songwriter Kira Small, it tells the other side of the story of Dolly Parton’s famous “Jolene” from Jolene’s perspective. Since its radio release, the single and the album have already reached top ten status on numerous charts and continues to receive rave reviews. The music video for the song also adds a savory nuance to the legend. “We shot the video at the Eureka Inn in historic downtown Jonesborough, Tenn. It’s the oldest hotel in Tennessee, and we felt its historic Southern ambience was the perfect place to capture the essence of the song,” said Daniel. “There’s a haunting quality about both ‘Other Woman’s Blues’ and ‘Jolene’ and that’s the spirit we wanted to capture.” Daniel paused for a moment as if he still could sense the hotel’s hoary history and the ghosts within. “The amazing part of the whole process is that it took 12 hours of shooting over two days just to get a three and a half minute video!” Caroyn interjected, “We had no idea that it would be that exhausting.” In addition to the guest musicians, Nu-Blu also tapped the talents of some of the best songwriters in bluegrass. Tim Stafford, John Weisberger, Donna Ulisse, Larry Shell, and Becky Buller, to name just a few who appear on the album credits. The song “Family Quilt,” co-written by Jeff Walter and Deborah Berwyn, is set to be the second single released in late March. “‘Family Quilt’ has proven to be a fan favorite at our shows,” said Carolyn. “Folks are always coming up after a performance and asking, ‘What CD is that quilt song on?’” Nu-Blu have their preferred instruments for recording and performing. And like most recording artists, they signed a few endorsement deals. Carolyn plays an Eminence Bass with a Fishman Full Circle Pickup and a Fishman Pre-amp. The band also endorses D’Addario Strings, Peterson Tuners, and BlueChip Picks. Daniel plays a Martin D-28, the standard for bluegrass. “I do like a Martin D-18 in the studio sometimes. It really depends on the studio I’m at and what mics are being used. If I’m doing something for someone on a country CD, I’ll usually use my D-18. It seems to cut a little better through the drums and bass.” Austin plays a Collins mandolin, and Levi uses the old standby for the banjo, a Gibson Mastertone. Nu-Blu is prepping for a full year of touring in 2012, a trek that will take them from the Carolinas and Florida to Texas and Canada and all points across the Mid-West for good measure. Daniel and Carolyn added, “We also have a new gospel album already recorded and it will be released later this year.” That’s surely exciting news indeed. -Reprinted by permission of Bluegrass Unlimited

Hudson Valley Bluegrass Association Review

Celebrating their 10th year as a band, Nu-Blu has issued their newest release Ten. Founded in 2003 by husband and wife team Daniel and Carolyn Routh, Nu-Blu has developed a strong following while establishing their reputation as a progressive bluegrass band. While firmly versed in the traditions of bluegrass and gospel, they also bring other musical styles into their fresh, contemporary sound. This is a hard working band, their road schedule is relentless, playing many out of the way venues and bringing new audiences to bluegrass.

Daniel, guitar and Carolyn, bass are the driving force behind the band. They are joined here by longtime band members Levi Austin on banjo and Austin Koerner on mandolin with special guest appearances by Ron Stewart and Jim Van Cleve. While everyone in the band sings, the majority of the vocals on this recording are handled by Carolyn, a talented singer with a strong voice and good range.

The CD kicks off with “That Road,” their first single from the album. This Honi Deaton composition is a traditional bluegrass tune that speaks of a musician’s life on the road and why it keeps calling them back. The tune has a nice medium groove, tasteful instrumental breaks, strong backing harmonies and sets a good tone for the rest of the 10 tunes on the album.

“Without A Kiss” is up next with Carolyn on lead vocals. She delivers a strong performance on this sad tale of a wife that loses her husband to a coal mine accident. I really enjoyed her voice on this tune and found that it was at times ever so slightly reminiscent of Rosanne Cash.

“Caught in the Middle” brings us back to a medium tempo bluegrass tune the theme of which is being caught in the middle of giving up or giving in to life's day to day challenges. This is one of several songs that offer commentary on life in America today.

“Eddie’s Garage” is a “homegrown slice of Americana,” telling a story of smalltown America, Anytown USA if you will, where you have a local garage run by an honest guy that you trust to do a good job. It’s about pride in America, the heart and sole of the USA. Not a bad sentiment when you think about it and a style of life worth preserving in this age of chains and mega-stores.

Interestingly and somewhat along these same lines is “All Americans,” a tune that directly questions the divided state of our nation and people, and the fact that our elected officials can’t seem to agree on anything. “Aren’t we all on the same side? Aren’t we all Americans.” Good for them for putting it out there.

“Giant Squid” a contemporary tune composed by Austin Koerner is the only instrumental on the compilation and features nice solos by each instrumentalist.

Overall, discovering this recording was a nice surprise. Ten is my first exposure to Nu-Blu and I have to say there is a lot to like here. These are really good musicians and singers that deliver tasteful performances throughout the CD. Rural Rhythm Records.   -Review by Jaques DiCroce

Bluegrass Today Review

Bands often mark milestone anniversaries with new collections of their music – greatest hits albums, or in the case of the Lonesome River Band this past year, fresh recordings of their greatest hits. Nu-Blu, which is celebrating ten years as a band in 2013, has recently released a disc which commemorates this tenth anniversary. However, instead of digging through past releases to find songs for this new album, the fittingly named Ten consists of (you guessed it) ten tracks of all-new music.

The band states that while in the past they may have chosen their material based on what others expected to hear, with this album they have allowed their own emotions and experiences to guide the selection of songs. This has led to an album which moves back and forth between straightforward contemporary bluegrass and emotion-filled acoustic country. Overall, Ten has a country singer-songwriter feel, particularly due to bassist Carolyn Routh’s heartfelt lead vocals on a majority of the tracks.

The songs on the bluegrass side of things are, in general, the most enjoyable on the album, largely because they have a nice energy running through them. The opening track, That Road, is an upbeat musician’s lament which finds the singer trying to work through the familiar conflict between her love of making music on the road and her love for home and the one she left there. With a few exceptions, songs with this theme are usually written and sung from a male point of view, so it’s nice to hear a female lead and have a female writer (Honi Deaton) this time.

Another grassy track, Caught in the Middle, offers another standard bluegrass theme, this time that of someone who has left home and realizes it was the wrong decision. Trains I Didn’t Take is a variation on the idea behind Balsam Range’s hit Trains I Missed, with the singer stopped at a railroad crossing behind an old love and realizing that “there are no mistakes, only choices that I made.”

On the more country-leaning side of things are the tearjerker Without a Kiss (the story of a coal miner’s widow who rests in the knowledge she’ll see him again someday) and the patriotic All Americans (which finds several band members sharing lead vocals, and urges listeners to put their differences aside and remember that even if we disagree, we all live in the same country). Eddie’s Garage is a laidback slice-of-life tune about a small-town working man who represents “the soul of the USA.” These numbers are all enjoyable, but both the subject matter and sound are much more similar to late 90’s/early 2000’s country radio than the contemporary bluegrass found elsewhere on the album.

The Pat Benatar cover Shadows of the Night has a mellow country feel, as well (with a bit of soft rock mixed in), and closes out the album on a high note. Routh seems quite comfortable and convincing singing here, and this stripped-down, acoustic version is a nice, modern update from the over-the-top 80’s production of Benatar’s cut of the song.

Nu-Blu, which consists of Routh (bass), her husband Daniel (guitar), Levi Austin (banjo), and Austin Koerner (mandolin) is a talented group, and while this album falls more in the country category than bluegrass, their fans will still likely enjoy the stories and music to be found on Ten.

For more information on Nu-Blu, visit their website at www.nu-blu.com. Their new album can be purchased from several online music retailers.

iDitty Announces Nu-Blu As Their First Totally Digital Client

 iDitty is proud to announce Nu-Blu as their first totally digital client with their new album TEN. “The idea behind iDitty is to offer the touring musician a physical product they can sell at shows, said Dan Huff, CEO of iDitty. “With CD sales continuing to decline, and the number of music downloads continuing to increase, the market requires a product that meets the needs of the musician and the music consumer. “

“There is no other product on the market that works the way iDitty does,” continued Dan. “My wife Kim deserves credit for the idea to make our product easy to use with a smartphone and tablet and suggested using an app that would support both iPhone and Android operating systems. iDitty allows the musician and record labels to control the content of their card. Its design offers their fans more for their money by way of adding video and pictures that are not generally available on a CD. iDitty is ideal for the musician signed to a label or the independent musician. iDitty offers more content and costs much less to produce than a CD.”

“It’s really exciting to be the first band to use this new technology. The iDitty card allows us to still offer our fans a memento of the show, and capture the sales on the merchandise, all while using a digital format. The coolest part is that they allow us to go back and add videos and extras to the card at no extra cost to our fans! It’s the perfect bridge to the digital word,” said Nu-Blu.

Not only is Nu-Blu celebrating their 10th anniversary with the new album TEN on Rural Rhythm Records, but they are now on THE TEN TOUR performing across the country. With their heavy tour schedule and exposure to music buyers, they are a perfect fit for iDitty.

“When Dan Huff and I first started to discuss approaching record labels, I immediately thought of Rural Rhythm Records. I’ve known Sam Passamano and his son Sammy 3 for several years. I know they are visionaries and forward thinkers. They understand the music business is changing and in order to stay on top you have to adapt. Dan has been working with Daniel Routh of Nu-Blu to get their project ready for their fans. I consider it an honor to have Nu-Blu as our first totally digital client,” said Keith Roberts, Executive VP Marketing iDitty. Music fans can get more information on Nu-Blu at nu-blu.com, and follow them on Twitter (@nu-blu, #thetentour, #followlola) and like them on Facebook. For label and indie artists interested in iDitty, please visit iditty.NET.

Nu-Blu Kicks Off 10th Anniversary Tour With A New Website And Chart Single.

   

                        “Martha and Mary” Appearing On Singing News Magazine and Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine Charts

Nashville, TN (March 20, 2013) – Nu-Blu kicks off their 10th Anniversary year with the launch of a brand new website and a national tour that will take them across the country performing at major festivals, concert halls, and more. The band will soon announce details of an upcoming album, but they are continuing the celebration of their latest album, NAIL BY NAIL.

“Martha and Mary,” written by Becky Buller and Nancy Cardwell, is the first single release from NAIL BY NAIL. The song appears at #2 on this month’s Singing News Magazine Top Song Chart for the second month in a row, climbs higher on Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine’s Top 30 Bluegrass Song Chart and previously debuted at #8 on Bluegrass Today’s Weekly Top 20.

Nu-Blu is also proud to announce their lead vocalist and bassist, Carolyn Routh, graduated from the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Leadership Bluegrass 2013. Leadership Bluegrass is an intensive, three-day program focused on interactive learning and networking experiences that invite participants to examine the challenges and opportunities facing the bluegrass music industry, along with leadership development issues. Leadership Bluegrass 2013 was hosted at BMI, and Bone McAllester Norton PLLC in Nashville, Tennessee earlier this month. 

For more information on Nu-Blu including tour dates, music and band members, Daniel Routh, Carolyn, Routh, Levi Austin and Austin Koerner, please visit their new website at Nu-Blu.com.  

Contacts
Pinecastle Records:  Matt Hood, Email:  matt@pinecastlemusic.com, 828-376-0065
Media: Hope River Entertainment.com, Penni McDaniel, penni@hoperiverentertainment.com 678-377-3298

IBMA Leadership Bluegrass Graduates Includes Carolyn Routh

The International Bluegrass Music Association is proud to announce the graduating class of Leadership Bluegrass 2013. Leadership Bluegrass is an intensive, three-day program focused on interactive learning and networking experiences that invite participants to examine the challenges and opportunities facing the bluegrass music industry, along with leadership development issues. This was the 14th year of Leadership Bluegrass, which now boasts over 300 alumni.

Leadership Bluegrass 2013 was hosted at BMI, and Bone McAllester Norton PLLC in Nashville, Tennessee March 7 through 9. Trisha Tubbs was the facilitator. Each year participants are selected through a selective application process and are a cross section of current and future leaders from various aspects of the industry, and come from various regions of the U.S. and the world. Freelance writer and journalist Shannon Turner, a Leadership Bluegrass 2013 graduate, said she will always value being a part of the class. “Leadership Bluegrass is an invaluable program of learning, growth, and even transformation. You leave with a renewed energy and determination to spread the gospel of bluegrass music,” Turner said. The Bluegrass Situation’s Amy Reitnouer, who was also a participant agreed, saying, “I was awed by the fellow classmates, network of alumni, and incredible presenters.”

Congratulations to our graduates:

Darin Aldridge; Darin and Brooke Aldridge; Cherryville, NC Melissa Armstrong; Detour; Sand Lake, MI Andrea Ball; Make Welcome Entertainment; Washington, DC Katherine Coe; IBMA; Nashville, TN Jeremy Darrow; The Erin McDermott Band/Freelance Musician; Nashville, TN John DeMarce; DC Bluegrass Union; Washington, DC Susie Glaze; Hilonesome Music, Susie Glaze & the Hilonesome Band; Burbank, CA KC Groves; Artist & Composer; Lyons, CO Kayla Hotte; Kayla Hotte & her Rodeo Pals; Ardrossan, Alberta, CA Caroline Isachsen; Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival; Delmar, NY Steven Johnson; MerleFest; Wilkesboro, NC Lori King; Bluegrass Music Association of Iowa; Drakesville, IA Jordan Laney; Appalachian State University; Vilas, NC Ron Murphy; Muddy River Band; Wilmington, OH Amy Reitnouer; The Bluegrass Situation; Los Angeles, CA Carolyn Routh; Nu-Blu, Red Squared Audio; Siler City; NC Sheila Selby; Boston Bluegrass Union; Brookline, MA Carly Smith; International Bluegrass Music Museum; Owensboro, KY Erin Stamper; WAMU’s Bluegrass Country; Washington, DC Shannon Turner; Freelance writer/journalist; Hermitage, TN Missy Werner; Missy Werner Band; Liberty Township, OH Jill Wiese; Bluegrass Association of North Dakota; Washburn, ND Kristi Wilcox; Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP; Nashville, TN Courtney Worthen; PineCone – The Piedmont Council of Traditional Music; Raleigh, NC

Thank you to our sponsors for Leadership Bluegrass 2013:

Gold: BMI; The Bluegrass Heritage Foundation; Bone McAllester Norton LLC; Wintergrass Music Festival (Acoustic Sound); Martha Dantzic/Quicksilver Productions Patron: John & Trisha Tubbs LBG Family: Terry & Sharon Alford, Phil Bankester, Nick Barr, Danny Clark, Katy Daley, Regina Derzon, Arnie Fleischer, Lisa Jacobi, Denise Jarvinen, Richard Spratt, Kimberly East Williams Friends of LBG: Claire Armbruster & Jeff Koontz, Mike Armistead, Fred Bartenstein, Janet Brightly, Dr. Richard Brown, Mary Burdette, Paul Byrum, Greg Cahill, Casey Campbell, Nancy Cardwell, Dag Iver Caspersen, Darwin Davidson, Lachlan Davidson, Lynda Dawson, Mary Tyler Doub, Bill Foster, Carolyn Hotte, Lisa Husted, Carl Jackson, Rienk Janssen, Russell Johnson, Bill Knowlton, Kitsy Kuykendall, Dagfinn Pedersen, Tina Potter, Mike Ramsey, Jim Roe, Dana Romanello, Neil & Terri Rosenberg, Stephen Ruffo, Mary Sackmann, Peter Salovey, Sharon White & Rick y Skaggs, Mary Faith Rhoads-Lewis, Sheila Selby, Earle Simmons, Frank Solivan, Jean Spivey, Susan Stewert, Kit Swaggert, Ben Surratt & Missy Raines, Brian Smith, Barry & Holly Tashian, G.C. Teskey, Dana Thorin, Traci Todd, Alan Tompkins, April Verch, Garian Vigil, Lucy Weberling, Bob Webster, Jon Weisberger, Dwight Worden, Stan Zdonik.

The Leadership Bluegrass planning committee this year included: Alan Tompkins (Chair), Joan Kornblith, Amy Beth Hale, Jean Spivey, Emilee Warner, Ben Surratt, Nolan Lawrence, Trisha Tubbs (facilitator), and Nancy Cardwell (staff liaison). Kornblith, Surratt, Gerald Jones, and Chris Stuart served on the Selection Committee. Taylor Coughlin, IBMA, was the facilitator’s assistant.

For information on the next Leadership Bluegrass class, contact Nancy Cardwell at (615) 256-3222 or nancyc@ibma.org.

Nail by Nail in Top 40 Albums KFDI-FM

We are proud our album NAIL BY NAIL debuts on Orien Friesen’s Top 40 Bluegrass Albums for January 2013 on the Bluegrass From the Rocking Banjo Ranch on KFDI-FM 101.3 Radio. Join the station in celebrating 48 years of playing bluegrass and acoustic music on the radio!

Dixieland Music Park

What a great venue! Make your plans now for the April festival. http://www.dixielandrvpark.com

Great New Review on Parchbench

Nu-Blu – Nail By Nail
*** (out of 4 stars)
Label: Pinecastle Records

Nail By Nail is Nu-Blu’s first all gospel album, and it is true to the best of bluegrass tradition. It’s an album that delivers as much heartfelt emotion as it evokes from the band. Thease are songs that take you somewhere, and then brings you back home so that you can listen just a little more clearly.

The album begins with “The Abyss,” one of the darker tracks on the album. Written by Donna Ulisse and Marc Rossi. It sings about going to The Father when overcome with despair. It’s an inspirational song that reminds us of the occasional brooding quality of serious bluegrass music.

One of the best tracks on the album is “Martha and Mary,” a powerful, banjo-driven tune written by Becky Buller and Nancy Cardwell, based on the Bible’s story of (you guessed it) Martha and Mary. It’s the kind of song that you can’t help listening to without nodding your head in agreement… in rhythm.

As bluegrass bands go, Nu-Blu is one of the more lively, playing even the slower tempo songs with passion and energy. The band consists of Daniel Routh (vocals and guitar), Carolyn Routh (vocals and bass), Levi Austin (harmony vocals, bass, guitar and banjo), Greg Luck (fiddle) and Austin Koerner (mandolin). Nail By Nail is a great introduction to Nu-Blu and will no doubt inspire you to check out their previous work as well.

Bluegrass Today Interview at IBMA

New Music Video - "Other Woman's Blues"

"Martha and Mary" by Nu-Blu Now Out To Radio

Pinecastle Records is pleased to announce today’s new single, “Martha and Mary” by Nu-Blu. The song was written by Becky Buller and Nancy Cardwell and appears on Nu-Blu’s first gospel album, NAIL BY NAIL set for release October 30, 2012. The single has been serviced to bluegrass radio stations and is also available at AirplayDirect.com.

“The story of Martha and Mary is one of the great Gospel stories of the Bible. Nu-Blu’s latest single, ‘Martha and Mary’ reminds us that there is a little bit of Martha and a little bit of Mary in each of us. Talk about getting a listener – any listener – to relate to the song’s message, Nu-Blu has a sure-fire winner in this song, destined to be a favorite among fans and radio programmers alike,” said Brian McNeal, Prescription Bluegrass.

Fans can listen to the new single “Martha and Mary” plus pre-order a copy of NAIL BY NAIL at pinecastlemusic.com/bluegrass-gospel/nail-by-nail  and get an instant download of the track, “Martha and Mary.”

The label released Nu-Blu’s THE BLU-DISC last year that included the impressive single “Other Woman’s Blues” that was also released as a music video. Pinecastle also released a holiday single, “Christmas in Dixie,” late last year as well. Just a few short weeks later, that holiday favorite reached the #1 spot on the Airplay Direct’s Top Bluegrass Album Chart.

This energetic bluegrass band, consisting of Daniel Routh, Carolyn, Routh, Levi Austin and Austin Koerner, has certainly proven to have crossover success in a variety of genres.  They have been featured in numerous Bluegrass publications including the April 2012 issue of Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine. Their single, “Spin On A Red Brick Floor” from their NIGHTS album debuted at #10 on the Euro Americana Chart and spent five weeks on the Americana Music Association’s Top 40 chart.  Nu-Blu were the winners of the Country Band of the Year Award by the Carolina Music Awards in 2010 and were nominated by the organization again last year as the Country/Bluegrass/Americana Group of the Year.

For more information on Nu-Blu and to receive upcoming announcements on NAIL BY NAIL, please www.Nu-Blu.com. For more information on Pinecastle Records, please visit www.PinecastleMusic.com.