As one of the hottest new acoustic bands in the genre today, The HillBenders are making waves. Much like the oncoming heat of summer, this young band is quickly rising above many of their peers and achieving accomplishments that veteran groups strive for. Claiming the championship title at last year's Telluride Bluegrass Band Competition in Colorado helped put The HillBenders on the map, so to speak. Being recognized by a group as prestigious as the Telluride Bluegrass Festival is no small feat, and firmly reassured The HillBenders that they are on the right path. One look at their 2010 tour schedule reaffirms the fact that the HillBenders have become a force in their genre with coast to coast appearances at some of the country's premiere music events such as the Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival, the Walnut Valley Festival, Mullberry Mountain Harvest Festival, the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Silver Dollar City's Bluegrass and Bar-B-Q festival, Bluegrass Bands and Helping Hands Concert and many more. With interests and influences as far-reaching as their hometowns, the sound they produce is unique and captivating. Drawn together by a mutual desire to write and perform original music, the HillBenders combine the traditions of bluegrass with a diversity of influences creating a sound unlike any you've heard before.

Not only do all four members write and arrange their own music, they all sing incredibly well. Most songs boast 3 and or 4-part harmonies and the lead vocal role is shared among the group. Be prepared to be amazed by some of the best "unknown" voices in Bluegrass music today!

The same can be said of the instrumental prowess of the band. Led by the formidable banjo playing of Mark Cassidy, and aggressive style of Chad "Gravy Boat" Graves, the intricate instrumental parts in their music leave the crowd in awe. With tight arrangements and solo's as well as commanding vocals and harmonies there is little left to be desired after watching the HillBenders in concert.