DownRiver Collective, formed in 2018, is a lively growing force in the American roots music scene. They seamlessly mix traditional bluegrass and folk with progressive acoustic influences.
Founded by Virginia-born multi-instrumentalist John Gray and Floridian fiddler Bailey Warren, the group originally started as a three-piece folk ensemble. Their connection grew stronger at Belmont University in Nashville, where they expanded to include vocalist Ali Vance, mandolinist Rico Wallenda, and guitarist Jonny Therrien, all fellow students. This collective of talented musicians bonded over a shared passion for bluegrass, laying the foundation for what would become a full-bodied string band.
After debuting with their album Kettleridge, DownRiver Collective evolved further with the release of their seven-track EP Off the Shelf, which highlighted their growth and versatility as musicians.
In 2024, the band’s rising star status was cemented when they won the prestigious International Bluegrass Music Association’s Momentum Award for Band of the Year.
Musicians in 2024: John Gray on banjo, guitar, backing vocals; Bailey Warren on fiddle, backing vocals; Ali Vance on lead vocals; Rico Wallenda on mandolin; and Jonny Therrien on acoustic guitar, dobro.
Discography:
Kettleridge (2020)
Off the Shelf (Kettleridge Records, 2023)
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.