Merlefest is one of the most well-attended annual music festivals for fans of folk, roots, Americana, and bluegrass music. Because a festival like Merlefest has such a long roster of outstanding acts, planning out what you're going to see can get overwhelming quickly. If you're headed to Wilkesboro, NC, for Merlefest 2010, you'll want to make sure not to miss these five artists.
1. Elvis Costello & the Sugarcanes
photo: Chris Jackson/Getty Images
Elvis Costello has been around the music industry for quite some time, and has proven to be an adept songwriter no matter the style he chooses. His music has run the gamut from rock to pop to classic-style country and Americana. With his backing band, the Sugarcanes (presumably named for his country album Secret, Profane and Sugarcane), he'll no doubt be one of the great highlights of this year's Merlefest.
2. W.P.A.
photo: Kim Ruehl/About.com
WPA is about as close as you'll come to an Americana supergroup these days (though Robert Plant's newly repeopled Band of Joy could give them a run for their money). Luke Bulla, Sean Watkins, Greg Liesz, Glen Phillips...occasionally Benmont Tensch, Sara Watkins, and other guests. There's little this band can't make happen with their instruments, not to mention the thoughtful, intuitive songwriting of Phillips and the male Watkins sibling. They were easily a great highlight of this year's Cayamo music cruise, and I'd recommend not skipping them at Merlefest.
3. Avett Brothers
photo: Karl Walter/Getty Images
This won't be the first (and likely not the last) time the Avett Brothers have graced the Merlefest stage. But, if you've yet to be turned on to this dynamic troupe of envelope-pushers, now is as good a time as any. The momentum behind their most recent release, I and Love and You is remarkable, and well deserved. The Avetts put on consistently excellent shows, full of energy and undeniable passion for their craft.
4. Belleville Outfit
press photo Belleville Outfit
I've been preaching the gospel of the Belleville Outfit for a few years now, ever since I happened upon them during 2007 Folk Alliance. Their performances at SXSW 2010 just sealed the deal. If you're looking for something new, try this inventive blend of Western Swing, jazz, country, and pop. They'll definitely stand out on the Merlefest lineup, and you won't regret taking the time out to catch their set.
5. Steeldrivers
courtesy Rounder Records
Nashville has a way of churning out supergroups of session players with remarkable resumes and even more impressive collective synergy. The Steeldrivers are one such concoction, and their albums have been impressing fans and critics alike the last few years. This is full throttle contemporary bluegrass, packed with various other elements (country, pop, soul) to keep it fresh and unique.
