KC and the Side Hustlers is a musical collaboration of three successful touring musicians brought together by their love of traditional Appalachain string-band music also more simply called “old-time music.” The three “Side Hustlers” are making time in their respective busy schedules to come together to enjoy the music they all love so well but rarely get a chance to perform.
Natalie Padilla is the fiddler and vocalist of the successful Front Range band Masontown. They have deep roots in playing old-time music and came up with the idea to bring the band together to celebrate and honor the music that so many of the recent and creative bluegrass and folk bands draw from.
Dusty Rider, banjoist from the band The Railsplitters, is just as adept at the older, more traditional form of banjo often referred to as frailing or “claw-hammer” as he is at the bluegrass banjo. Dusty, raised on country bands like The Statler Brothers with their complex harmonies, is one of the area's best vocal harmonizers and vocal arrangers.
KC Groves, founder of the great all-female old-time band Uncle Earl, said, “I miss the drive and simple joy old-time music brings and I’m really looking forward to playing with this new combo that focuses on the traditional side of mountain music. There wouldn’t be bluegrass or any of the music that derives from it, without old-time, and I’m so happy to be able to honor the tradition with the talented Dusty and Natalie.”
The three members of the Side Hustlers, Natalie, Dusty and KC are all singers in their own right and share the lead singing duties. All can easily swap harmony parts to provide a lush vocal backdrop to the driving, toe-tapping rhythms the band produces. Their music is rich with history but fresh with creativity and will certainly bring a smile to everyone who is lucky enough to see and hear The Side Hustlers.
Scheduled opening acts are Taylor Dolan and Jackson Emmer.
Baked goods, coffee, tea, and water available for purchase.
$10 general admission, $5 members and students w/ ID, free for ages 12 and younger. No advance tickets; admission only at the door.