Sweet Sunny South

Sweet Sunny South plays original yet traditional styled old time bluegrass music. Based in Paonia, Colorado, the group has been performing extensively throughout the region for the past three years and just keeps gathering momentum. The new CD, Bell Creek Dance Club is enjoying strong reviews and is getting lots of airplay on bluegrass radio shows around the country.  As well as the original and traditional songs on the CD, the group shaped the recording around the title track, telling the tale of the local dance spot from back in the 30’s and 40’s.  It’s tastefully narrated by a handful of the old timers still around who are full of heart felt and humorous stories. 

Although the CD is what folks are talking about today, Sweet Sunny South is mostly known for their live performances.  They have been invited to many of the fine festivals throughout Colorado and placed at the prestigious Rocky Grass band contest in both 2003 & 2004.  They have been noted for their ability to entertain audiences with wry wit, solid musicianship, tight vocal harmonies and great song selections. Sweet Sunny South has a decidedly old-fashioned look and appeal and play around a single microphone. Within their sets you’ll hear traditional old time fiddle tunes, driving mandolin instrumentals, classic vocal songs from the likes of Hank Williams and Bill Monroe, interpretations of contemporary bands like Old Crow Medicine Show and the Wilders, as well as new original numbers that sound as though they were written long ago. 

Banjo and mandolin player, Bill Powers, writes most of the bands’ original songs, which take the listeners on scenic journeys into dusty old American music.  Cory Obert plays a mean old-time fiddle and sings a clear high tenor. Rob Miller writes songs, plays rhythm guitar and sings lead and harmony. Sweet Sunny South is excited about the new addition of (The Darling) Shelley Gray (a.k.a. “Laura Ingalls Wilder-n-swingin”) on bass and vocals.

Look for this great up-and-coming band to be playing extensively throughout the region and grab their new CD, Bell Creek Dance Club – Bluegrass, old time, anytime!  www.sweetsunnysouth.com