Caught in the Act: Railroad Earth

The State Theater in Falls Church, VA was almost empty shortly before the show. Out of nowhere a full crowd of passengers lined up to jump on board to catch newgrass band Railroad Earth. RRE loaded up the firebox and headed full steam into their two hour set. Unlike most bluegrass groups, Railroad Earth is pushed along by its drummer, Carey Harmon, and upright bass player, Johnny Grubb. Led by guitarist and lead singer Todd Scheaffer, RRE includes the traditional bluegrass crewmen Tim Carbone (violin); John Skehan (mandolin) and Andy Goessling (guitar, banjo, mandolin, flute, pennywhistle, dobro and saxophone). Dancing was non-stop from the first tune to the final after-midnight encores, as RRE kept the train rollin' and their fans stoked. For more information about RRE, visit their website, www.railroadearth.com.

Photos by Mike Davis.