DCist Preview: Yonder Mountain String Band @ 9:30 Club
There aren't many examples of contemporary bluegrass bands crossing over into more widespread popularity. In fact, there might be only two: Allison Krauss and Union Station, and the Yonder Mountain String Band. But while AKUS tends to attract an older and more traditional crowd, Yonder Mountain has built a loyal following on college campuses, regularly plays mainstream venues, and was even on the bill at the 2008 Democratic National Convention, which took place in the band's birth state of Colorado.
"I personally would like to believe it's because of our songs," guitarist Adam Aijala told DCist when asked about Yonder Mountain's broad appeal. "People also know they can come to our show and have a killer time."
The quartet, comprised of Aijala, bassist Ben Kaufmann, banjoist Dave Johnston, and Jeff Austin on mandolin, will perform at the 9:30 Club on Friday night, along with opener Danny Barnes. Yonder Mountain is touring in support of its latest recording, The Show, released last month, which showcases the band's strong command of melody and songcraft. With producer Tom Rothrock (Foo Fighters, Elliott Smith, James Blunt), the group utilized all the tools of the studio, while maintaining the live feel of its previous albums, many of which were recorded in concert.
"We achieved everything we set out to do. It's sonically our best record yet," Aijala explained. "The mentality is that you have this stuff at your disposal, but you don't want to overproduce."
For The Show, the band tapped drummer Pete Thomas, known for his long association with Elvis Costello. While he played on a handful of tracks, Yonder Mountain's shows are generally sans drums, and that will be the case for Friday's set.
With ample material, Yonder Mountain can play four of its characteristically high energy shows, which normally run over 2 1/2 hours, without repeating a tune. But Aijala also noted the band, road tested in the truest sense, welcomes its increased exposure and the comforts that come along with it.
"The intention wasn't to say, 'how can we fit into mainstream music?,'" said Aijala. "Ultimately, living on the road is not the healthiest, so the mentality of less shows/more money is kind of appealing. Time at home is awesome."
But the fact that Yonder Mountain is playing bigger rooms is not a sign that fans, old and new, will get any less bang for their buck.
"Give us a chance, you'll like it. Even if you don't like [bluegrass] music, you'll still enjoy the show. We give 100 percent," Aijala declared.
The Yonder Mountain String Band will be performing along with opener Danny Barnes on Friday, Oct. 9, at the 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. doors. $25