Jarrod Walker, ladies and gentlemen.
If you’re a serious bluegrass fan, you already know the name. If not, you probably should.
Best known as the mandolinist in Billy Strings’ sensational jamgrass outfit, Walker is a valuable member of the string-slinging band that backs bluegrass’ top hand. And despite the relentless touring and recording schedule that comes with such a role, Walker found the time to focus on something of his own.
Last week, Walker stepped into the spotlight with the release of his debut single “Nighthawk,” and announcement that a record of the same name is slated for release on May 8. Co-produced by bandmate and upright bassist Royal Masat, Nighthawk features 10 originals written by Walker, along with a stacked cast of co-writers – including Strings – and a cover of fellow mandolinist Christopher Henry’s “West Dakota Rose.”
If the title track is any indication, bluegrass fans are in for a treat with this one.
Co-written with fiddler Christian Ward, of the Del McCoury Band, “Nighthawk” is an instant classic that blends two common bluegrass themes of nature and heartbreak, proving that both Walker and Ward are formidable lyricists in addition to their instrumental expertise.
With Strings on background vocals and Masat on the bass, and an A-list of other bluegrass musicians filling in elsewhere, Walker’s mandolin-driven balladry is the commencement of a masterful solo endeavor from one of bluegrass’ most prominent instrumentalists and budding songwriters.
Check it out for yourself here:
With a transcendent sound that feels meant for late-night campfire jams, yet at home in the amphitheaters and arenas Walker finds himself performing in these days, “Nighthawk” is a versatile track that has received rave reviews from fans thus far.
Especially after its live debut during Billy Strings’ show at Tampa’s Benchmark Arena, in Walker’s home state, the night of the release.
Nighthawk is out in its entirety come May 8, so mark your calendars and get ready to experience Jarrod Walker’s genius.
Nighthawk Tracklist:
“Miles On My Shoes”
“Leaving Canaan’s Land”
“West Dakota Rose”
“Over Home”
“Starlight”
“Cordova Street Blues”
“Nighthawk”
“Cold Daylight”
“Libby Phillips Rag”
“Uptown Johnny Getaway”
“Ain’t It Like”
In support of the album, Walker is even finding time amidst a busy Billy Strings tour schedule to hit the road and play a handful of his own shows across the Southeast this May. I’m not sure who Walker’s touring band will be, but judging by the cast that contributed to the making of Nighthawk, I’d imagine it could include some of his fellow Billy Strings band members.
Or at the very least, some of the best bluegrass musicians in the scene. Either way, a Jarrod Walker shows is the place to be come May.
Check out his tour dates below.
Jarrod Walker Tour Dates:
5/15 – Barrelhouse Ballroom – Chattanooga, TN
5/16 – The Orange Peel – Asheville, NC
5/17 – Terminal West – Atlanta, GA
5/20 – The Saturn – Birmingham, AL
5/21 – The Basement East – Nashville, TN
5/22 – Mars Music Hall – Huntsville, AL
