JULY 28, 2014
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Johnson City, TN – Symphony Rags celebrate the release of their debut CD with a show at the Down Home Friday, August 1 at 8pm. “The Fit Wives of Bristol” is the first collection of songs from the Bristol-band whose members Jake Canter, Megan Gregory, Nathan McClure, Mariel Story, and Brandon Story have played and recorded with many of the region’s best Americana musicians including the Steep Canyon Rangers, the Reeltime Travelers, the Brother Boys, and the everybodyfields. Taking their name from John Hartford’s tune “Symphony Hall Rag,” the band started playing together in the spring of 2012, and has performed at Bristol’s Rhythm and Roots, Johnson City’s Blue Plum, and many regional venues and private functions.
“The Fit Wives of Bristol” features songs written by Mariel and Brandon Story, winner of the prestigious Chris Austin Songwriting Contest at Merlefest in the Bluegrass category, and by songwriter and storyteller Anndrena Belcher and ETSU Professor and songwriter Kevin O’Donnell. “Everyone knows this area produces great musicians, but it’s also rich in terrific new songs,” says Brandon Story, “and we wanted to draw attention to two of our favorites.”
The provocatively-named title track tells the story of a summer love from the distant past and the way men and women’s lives seem to go in different directions. “It’s a funny title for a sad song,” says Mariel Story, whose own quirky songwriting features prominently on the album. One song whose title raises eyebrows is called ‘Jesus in High School,’ which is a fantasy of what it would be like to see Jesus negotiating the halls of a modern American high school. Mariel, a High School English teacher, writes from experience.
“The Fit Wives of Bristol” was recorded by Nathan McClure and produced by the band. “Everyone brings a lot of ideas, which is mostly a blessing,” says Brandon, “Megan’s ear for harmonies and vocal arrangements challenged all of us to work hard on our singing.” You can hear the band sing and play their new tunes Friday at the Down Home. It’s an 8pm show, and the band hopes you’ll come enjoy the music and take home a “Fit Wives of Bristol” CD.
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