Bluegrass powerhouse Sideline has unveiled their first single in two years, marking a notable return to the studio. Led by Skip Cherryholmes, the group’s recording session for Mountain Home Music Company yielded a burst of creativity after their hiatus from touring in 2023. The result is “The Lives of the Innocent,” a compelling Civil War narrative infused with the band’s distinctive sound.
Featuring founding members Skip Cherryholmes and Steve Dilling, along with a talented ensemble including guest fiddler Matt Flake and former Sideline members, the track highlights Bailey Coe’s dynamic vocals against a backdrop of stirring harmonies.
Written by bluegrass musician and US history teacher Shannon Slaughter, the song draws inspiration from the Hibriten Guards’ wartime experiences in North Carolina. With a slightly elevated tempo, Sideline captures the essence of the narrative while maintaining their trademark energy.
Characterized by Cherryholmes’ robust guitar and Dilling’s driving banjo, the performance exudes a palpable sense of gravity, underscoring the song’s poignant themes. “The Lives of the Innocent” is available for streaming in Dolby Atmos spatial audio on major platforms, solidifying its place as a standout addition to Sideline’s catalog.
Author: World Music Central News Room
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