The Steel Wheels

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Four-part harmonies over fresh, modern tones made on traditional acoustic instruments.

—NPR

The Steel Wheels have long been at home in the creative space between tradition and innovation, informed by the familiar sounds of the Virginia Blue Ridge mountains where the band was formed but always moving forward with insightful lyrics and an evolving sound. In 2005, Jay Lapp (vocals, guitars, mandolin) and Eric Brubaker (vocals, fiddle) joined Trent Wagler (lead vocals, guitar, banjo) in forming the band as a vehicle for Wagler’s songwriting. The trio released several albums under Wagler’s name before officially adopting the Steel Wheels moniker with the 2010 release of Red Wing. Kevin Garcia (drums, percussion, keys) joined in 2017, bringing a new level of sonic depth and polish to the outfit. Newest member Jeremy Darrow rounds out the rhythm section and grounds the band as they explore deeply rooted yet fresh folk-rock sounds.