I’ll admit it, I’ve got the bluegrass bug.
This is nothing new, but coming straight off of an incredible couple days of bluegrass and Billy Strings shows in Asheville, NC this past weekend, the genre is at the forefront of my mind.
As Strings headlines festivals, takes the stage in stadiums, and sells out arenas everywhere he goes all across the country, and artists like Molly Tuttle and Sierra Ferrell continue to rack up the high profile awards and accolades, it’s safe to say bluegrass is drawing plenty of attention at the moment. But as hot as the genre has been at the top lately, it still doesn’t seem to me like the general fervor has impacted some of the up and coming bluegrass groups to the extent that I would expect it to.
With the buzz surrounding Strings, Ferrell, Tuttle, Greensky Bluegrass, and so many more of the most established acts in the genre at the moment, they’ve been able to draw in tons of casual country music fans who can appreciate the music but may not be well-versed in today’s scene. I also recognize that plenty of fans out their may not feel like they have the time to seek out new bluegrass music, or maybe they just don’t know where to start.
So with that said, I’ve compiled a list below of 16 up and coming or underrated bluegrass acts that I think everyone who has become a fan of Billy Strings and Molly Tuttle needs to check out. That’s not to say these bands aren’t already well respected or don’t already have strong followings, in fact it’s quite the contrary, but the average country music fan who is just starting to get into bluegrass may not be familiar with them yet, and I’d like to try to change that.
Whether you are new to the genre, have just stuck to the classics, or don’t find yourself with the time to seek out new music, these bands are all worth checking out, and should be on any bluegrass fan’s radar. Bluegrass always sounds even better and most of these bands are touring right now, so if you hear something you like make sure to check if they’re coming to a city near you.
AJ Lee & Blue Summit
Molly Tuttle isn’t the only talented member of her family that’s in an awesome bluegrass band. In fact, the Tuttle’s had a family band for a while, and two of its members – Molly’s brother Sully (guitar) and close family friend AJ Lee (lead vocals, mandolin) – now play in Santa Cruz, CA based AJ Lee & Blue Summit. Fresh off of the release of their sophomore record City of Glass in 2024, AJ Lee & Blue Summit are in for a breakout year in 2025.
Arkansauce
Bronwyn Keith-Hynes
Clay Street Unit
This Denver-based jamgrass and folk-rock group is in for a huge year in 2025. With only five songs released thus far, one of which is a cover of a band mentioned later in this list, Clay Street Unit has built a strong reputation on their impressive live show, and have already played some pretty big festivals. But having recently signed a record deal with Monument Records, I’d imagine more new music is on the way this year, and as they gain momentum, these shows are only going to get bigger.
East Nash Grass
Fireside Collective
Hogslop String Band
Into the Fog
This Raleigh, NC based jamgrass group specializes in improvisational instrumentation and impressive harmonies, which explains why they’ve become a staple in North Carolina as one states most electrifying live bluegrass bands. Their recorded music doesn’t disappoint either, and with the release of their debut record Carolina Moon this past year, Into the Fog has made it clear they’re here to stay.
Kitchen Dwellers
One of bluegrass’ most underrated acts, the Bozeman, MT based jamgrass outfit Kitchen Dwellers’ has been gaining some serious momentum lately on the heels of their fantastic live show and their latest album Seven Devils, an astounding concept record that takes listeners on a thought-provoking, sonic journey inspired by Dante’s Inferno. With contemplatively allegorical lyricsm and an awesome sound, there is something for everyone in this album, and there si something for everyone in their live show, too.
Liam Purcell & Cane Mill Road
Mountain Grass Unit
Formed in Birmingham, Alabama and currently comprised of four extremely talented college students, the jamgrass group has experienced rapid growth within the genre as a result of heavy summer touring over the past couple years. Despite their young age and relative inexperience, Mountain Grass Unit has put together one of the best live shows you can find on the heels of frequent improvisation, harmonized vocals, and carefully curated setlists that not only showcase their original music but also provide plenty of opportunities for the band to put their own spin on a seemingly endless catalog of covers.
Shadowgrass
This five-piece jamgrass outfit is a must-listen for anyone who likes bluegrass music, and especially for anyone who appreciates the heavily improvised nature of a jamgrass show. Comprised of five incredible musicians who each bring something different to the table, Shadowgrass in its earliest form began when three of its members, barely teenagers, jammed together at a fiddle convention in Elk Creek, VA a decade ago. Now, years later, they haven’t looked back, adding a few more members and touring heavily to bring their music to anyone who will listen across the country.
Songs From the Road Band
The Last Revel
After rising through the ranks of the Minneapolis, MN music scene and gaining a strong regional following, The Last Revel cut ties in 2019 and embarked on an indefinite hiatus that ultimately lasted four years. And upon reuniting for their 2023 record Dovetail, it was immediately apparent that their was unfinished business to take care of. Hitting the road for the first time in years shortly thereafter, this genre defying group continues to blend bluegrass and rock and roll into an eclectic, string instrument fueled sound that is undeniably unique and sonically magnificent.
The Lil Smokies
Town Mountain
Best known for their iconic song “Down Low” which features none other than Tyler Childers, Asheville, NC’s Town Mountain is probably the biggest band on this list, but they are still incredibly underrated. With a deep catalog of original music that dates back to their debut record in 2008, Town Mountain may lean more towards an alt-country sound than anything else, but the bluegrass sound and influence is undeniably prominent, and their live show is one you don’t want to miss.
