Old Settler’s has become an annual opportunity for Central Texans to experience bluegrass legends and those that will one day take their place. Twice Grammy-nominated, Dailey & Vincent (Sat., 7:45pm, Bluebonnet stage; Sun., 11am, Campground stage) lead in the latter category, named both Entertainer of the Year and Vocal Group of the Year three times by the International Bluegrass Music Association. February’s Dailey & Vincent Sing the Statler Brothers pays tribute to their country music heroes with astounding harmonies. Nashville’s Infamous Stringdusters (Thu., 10:40pm, Campground stage; Fri., 5:50pm, Bluebonnet stage) balance a reverence for the traditional with jamgrass sensibilities. The youthful quintet has shared stages with like-minded explorers including Phil Lesh and John Scofield. Austin trio Wood & Wire (Sun., noon, Campground stage) recently became a foursome when they welcomed local mandolin maestro Billy Bright to the fold. The addition came hot on the heels of their second disc, The Coast, honed by fine textures, solid tunesmithing, and dramatic ensemble interplay. Led by Cruz Contreras of Robinella & the CCstringband, the Black Lillies (Sat., 11am, SouthStar stage) has one foot in the Appalachia of Ralph Stanley and the other in American roots rock. A follow-up to 2013’s well-received Runaway Freeway Blues is imminent.
This article appears in April 17 • 2015.