The Raleigh-based quartet established itself in the late '90s when Dave Wilson (vocals, guitar and harmonica), formerly of the band Stillhouse, traded his rock roots to experiment with a traditional acoustic sound. He and jam buddies John Teer (mandolin, fiddle, vocals), Chandler Holt (banjo, vocals) and Greg Readling (bass, pedal steel, piano, vocals) were desensitized to the Southern rock scene, and found inspiration in well-written, original country-influenced music.
The group’s fifth album, Wildwood, was released in July 2010. Much like the band’s previous albums, Wildwood is rich with folkloric stories and superbly written music. Chatham County Line still straddles the grey area between traditional acoustic bluegrass and the more progressive bluegrass that might include drum cameos and bits of imported songs from rock influences such as Bob Dylan. Where its authenticity lies, however, is in the 4 musicians' unique ability to produce the type of music they love to make.
Chatham County Line is currently on tour and appeared in St. Louis at Off Broadway on February 5, 2011.
