Truman's Ridge

Artist Information

Biography

Truman’s Ridge is a regional bluegrass band based in Sycamore, Illinois, a small town about 60 miles west of Chicago and 40 miles south of Wisconsin. Truman’s Ridge has been together since 2008. We play concerts, fairs, and festivals in Missouri, Illinois, and Wisconsin. We are also available for bookings in Minnesota, Iowa, Indiana, Kentucky, and Michigan. We have a gospel set available as well.

Truman’s Ridge is a four piece band. We work our stage shows off a single vocal microphone. Steve Sarver of DeKalb, Illinois, plays guitar and sings lead. Mark Fowler of McHenry, Illinois, plays mandolin and sings tenor harmony. Evan Flower of Sycamore, Illinois, plays the upright bass and sings baritone harmony. Bruce Wallace of Sycamore, Illinois, plays banjo, harmonica, and fiddle. He also supplies the bass vocals.

Truman's Ridge harmonies are varied, at times reminiscent of the early brother bands, and at other times showing a strong rural-gospel influence in the 3 and 4 part vocals. The lead vocals are always strong. Instrumentally the band continues to show the influence of midwestern string band and Chicago jazz and blues on its interpretation of traditional bluegrass arrangements. The rock-solid beat of the guitar and bass compliment the driving rhythm of the banjo and the compelling mandolin lead breaks. Fiddle and harmonica are also featured on some songs. Truman's Ridge offers an exciting blend of the familiar and the unique. This is Chicago style bluegrass at its finest!

Here is what others have said about Truman’s Ridge:

“Truman’s Ridge serves up a lightning-fast set of traditional bluegrass and gospel numbers.”
“the entire experience was marvelous”
“a WONDERFUL evening of worship, fellowship and truly phenomenal music”
“These guys are real troopers”
“unique sound ... real crowd pleasers”
“one of the best bands of the day.”
“You all Rock! (in a bluegrass fashion)”

Instrumentation

Steve Sarver - Vocals, Guitar.
Evan Flower - Banjo, Standup Bass
Bruce Wallace - Banjo, Bass, Guitar, Harmonica, Fiddle
Mark Fowler - mandolin, Fiddle

Discography

The bands newest CD, Long Way Home, was released in June 2010. This CD includes 17 songs, eight of which are original compositions by band members.
The first Trumans Ridge CD, Tru-Blue, was released in May 2009. The CD includes 17 songs, four which are original compositions by band members.
These CDs have been featured on several radio stations throughout the U.S. and in Europe.
Both "Long Way Home" and "Tru- Blue" can be ordered through cdbaby.com

Official Website

http://www.trumansridge.com

Links

• MySpace
• Facebook

Audio

• Truman's_Ridge_Demo_Tracks
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• Truman's_Ridge_Rocky_Road_Blues
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• TB Truman's Ridge
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• TB Mexican Prison
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• Truman's_Ridge_Long_Way_Home
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• Truman's_Ridge_Come_Christmas
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• Truman's_Ridge_My_Savior_Has_Prayed_For_Me
  Listen  
• Pruschnaya
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• Truman's_Ridge_Steppin'_Stones
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Video

Folsum Prison Blues

A Little Maggie

Photo Gallery

Press

• Podcast 310 Truman's Ridge
  

  (This is a podcast available through iTunes or on www.chicagoacoustic.net}

• In The Spotlight: TRUMAN'S RIDGE [+ Show ]
  

  How did the band get its name? The original bass used in the band was named “Truman” because it w...How did the band get its name?
  
  The original bass used in the band was named “Truman” because it was used in the jazz band that played for the Democratic National Convention during the presidential run of Harry S. Truman. Bruce’s father was raised on a farm at the foot of Crowley’s Ridge in the state of Arkansas. We combined these to create the name Truman’s Ridge.
  
  We searched for bands named Truman’s Ridge and found we were the only one using that name (or at least the first one) .
  
  
  Who are the members and what instruments does each play?
  
  Steve Sarver plays guitar and sings lead.  Mark Fowler plays mandolin and fiddle and sings tenor harmony.  Evan Flower plays the upright bass and sings baritone harmony.  Bruce Wallace plays banjo, harmonica, and fiddle. He also supplies the bass vocals.
  Evan occasionally plays banjo while Bruce fills in on the bass.
  
  What towns are each of your band members from?
  
  Steve Sarver is from DeKalb, Illinois. Bruce Wallace and Evan Flower are from Sycamore, Illinois. Mark Fowler is from McHenry, Illinois
  
  How did the band get started?
  Bruce and Steve had been playing together in another bluegrass band for about three years. In 2008 they decided to branch out and start their own band with the goals of writing and recording, doing some touring, and just seeing what they could accomplish with their music. They met Mark in Springfield, Illinois at a festival and really liked how he played Mandolin. He agreed to be a part of the band. Evan joined in January of 2010 after their original bass player had to retire for health reasons.
  
  
  
  Describe the music you play?
  We play Traditional Style Bluegrass.
  
  Bluegrass has strong midwestern roots - the first bluegrass recordings were done by Bill Monroe and his Bluegrass Boys in the studio at the Wrigley Building in Chicago, Illinois in the mid 1940’s.
  
  Traditional Bluegrass has the energy of early rockabilly/rock and roll, the harmonies of good country gospel music, and the instrumental breaks of a good jazz quartet.
  
  The rock-solid beat of the guitar and bass compliment the driving rhythm of the banjo and the compelling mandolin lead breaks. We also feature fiddle and harmonica on some of our songs.
  
  Bluegrass is fun-filled family entertainment.
  
  What makes your act different?
  
  Truman’s Ridge is a four piece band.  We work our stage shows off a single vocal microphone. That means there is a lot of movement on stage.
  
  We dress in the more formal tradition of hats and ties, which makes our performances appropriate for most venues.
  
  Instrumentally the band continues to show the influence of midwestern string band and Chicago jazz and blues on its interpretation of traditional bluegrass arrangements and in our original material.
  
  Truman's Ridge harmonies are varied, at times reminiscent of the early brother bands (Louvin, Everly, Monroe) and at other times showing a strong country-gospel influence in the 3 and 4 part vocals. The lead vocals are always strong.
  
  Truman's Ridge offers an exciting blend of the familiar and the unique. This is Chicago style bluegrass at its finest!
  
  
  Who are your three biggest influences?
  Bill Monroe,The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Del McCoury
  
  
  Discuss the best concert you’ve ever seen
  We’ve seen a lot of great concerts. Recently we watched Dailey and Vincent down at a festival in Pontiac, Illinois. They came out fast - 20 minutes of song after song, then they changed up the show with different instrumentation and harmonies. They played a range of bluegrass styles - their instrumentation was flawless and their harmonies were awesome. They sang through 4 key changes in one song and never missed a chord. Best 50 minutes we’ve seen in a long time.
  
  
  Why should people come see you (in 50 words or less)?
  We offer the finest Chicago Style bluegrass. Single vocal mic, well dressed, fast paced. All the excitement and freshness of the early days of Bluegrass.
  “Truman’s Ridge serves up a lightning-fast set of traditional bluegrass and gospel numbers.”
  “a WONDERFUL evening of truly phenomenal music”
  “You all Rock!”
  
  What is the best thing about being a musician?
  There is a synergy that occurs when the music is coming together. You can feel it - it is a beautiful, joyful thing. That and watching the little kids dance - they just can’t help but move!
  
  
  Pick one:
  Chuck Berry or Elvis Presley?
  Chuck Berry
  
  The Beatles or The Stones?
  Rolling Stones
  
  Michael Jackson or Madonna?
  Michael Jackson
  
  
  What are the URLs for the band's website, MySpace and Facebook pages?
  http://www.trumansridge.com/
  http://www.myspace.com/trumansridge
  
  
  How can people book your band?
  
  To book the band - email us at trumansridge@yahoo.com or call us at 815 603 1441.
  
  
  
  List your upcoming performances.
  We are currently booking for 2011 and 2012.
  Wednesday - November 3 on stage at 7:30 PM - The House Cafe in DeKalb Illinois (Corner of Route 38 and 3rd St)
  We will be debuting some of the new material we have been writing / working on for our next album. We will also be having a merchandise raffle.   
  The House Cafe is a great venue - good food and nice folks.  All ages in the audience.  Come and join us for a evening of bluegrass. 
  
  Saturday - November 20 - doors open at 6:00 - concert begins at 6:30 - Sycamore Baptist Church, Sycamore Illinois (corner of Somonauk and High Streets) 
  This is a benefit for the Hope Haven Shelter - no cover: free will offerings accepted.
  Performers include Kings Brothers, Basically Bluegrass Band, Ray Rose, and Truman's Ridge.
  This will be a night filled with bluegrass and gospel music - all for a great cause.  We look forward to seeing you. 
  
  
  Wednesday - December 1 - The House Cafe in DeKalb Illinois (Corner of Route 38 and 3rd St)
  We will be appearing with Red Tail Ring from Michigan.  Red Tail Ring will go on stage at
   7:30 .  We will go on at about 8:20.  
  
  Red Tail Ring consists of Michael Beauchamp and Laurel Premo, a duo with roots firmly planted in Appalachian old-time and folk music. This looks to be a fine night of Roots and Bluegrass Music -  
  
  
  Saturday - December 4 -FEED THE NEED III - doors open at 6:00 - concert begins at 6:30 - Genoa Veteran's Home (311 S Washington St, Genoa, IL 60135)
  This is a benefit for the Genoa Food Pantry. All door and raffle proceeds go to the charity.
  
  Wednesday - January 5 on stage at 7:30 PM - The House Cafe in DeKalb Illinois (Corner of Route 38 and 3rd St)
  
  Wednesday - February 2 on stage at 7:30 PM - The House Cafe in DeKalb Illinois (Corner of Route 38 and 3rd St)
  
  
  We have recorded 2 CD’s, Tru-Blue and Long Way Home. They are available from the band or through CDBaby.com . MP3”s can also be downloaded through iTunes and Amazon.com.

• Additional Releases - By Les McIntyre [+ Show ]
  

  TRUMAN’S RIDGE LONG WAY HOME No Label, No Number. Truman’s Ridge is a four-piece bluegrass quar...TRUMAN’S RIDGE
  LONG WAY HOME
  No Label, No Number.
  
  Truman’s Ridge is a four-piece bluegrass quartet from Sycamore, Ill. Their second release combines the originals “I Cry Alone,” “The Girl I Dreamed Of,” and the instrumental “Pruschnya,” along with familiar titles “Long Black Veil,” “Walls Of Time,” and “Nine Pound Hammer.” Instrumentally, the group is fairly solid throughout the 17 selections. However, the vocal harmonies falter in places, most apparent on the group’s tepid rendition of “Old Flames.” Regardless of any glitches, Long Way Home should find favor among the fans and followers of Truman’s Ridge. (Truman’s Ridge, 1580 John St., Sycamore, IL 60178, www.trumansridge.com.)

• Interview With Truman's Ridge [+ Show ]
  

  Ch.L.: Bluegrass Music has many new fans in Europe, who may be hearing about you for the first time....Ch.L.: Bluegrass Music has many new fans in Europe, who may be hearing about you for the first time. How would you describe yourself and the music you play to someone who has never seen or heard you before.
  Truman’s Ridge is a traditional bluegrass band based in Sycamore, Illinois, USA. Truman’s Ridge was organized in January 2008, and consists of four band members:
  Bruce Wallace (Banjo) – Sycamore, IL
  Steve Sarver (Guitar) – DeKalb, IL
  Mark Fowler (Mandolin) – McHenry, IL
  Evan Flower (Upright Bass) – Sycamore, IL
  
  We play a fast paced style of bluegrass that is influenced by the spirit of the early Bill Monroe Chicago sessions. The rock-solid beat of Steve’s guitar and Evan’s bass compliment the driving rhythm of Bruce’s banjo and Mark’s compelling mandolin lead breaks. Fiddle and harmonica are also featured on some of the songs.
  Our harmonies are varied, at times reminiscent of the early brother bands, and at other times showing a strong rural-gospel influence in the 3 and 4 part vocals. Steve’s lead vocals are always strong. Instrumentally we continue to show the influence of Midwestern string band and Chicago jazz and blues on our interpretation of traditional bluegrass arrangements.
  
  Ch.L.: What's unique about you that differentiates you from other artists?
  We perform using a single microphone. We also strongly believe in wearing hats and ties when performing - we feel it is a sign of respect for our audience. We write many of our songs and create our own arrangements of traditional material. The influences on our music are grounded in early bluegrass especially the spirit of the Columbia sessions recorded by Bill Monroe with Flatt, Scruggs, Wise, and Rainwater in Chicago, Illinois.
  
  Ch.L.: How was the last year for you? What were the highlights?
  We have had an interesting year. Evan joined the band in January after our original bass player had to retire for health reasons. He had about a month to get ready before our next festival, a gospel show in Peoria, Illinois. Two weeks later we went into the studio to record our second CD, “Long Way Home”. Luckily, he is a fast learner and is a great addition to the band.
  We have had a chance to open for Audie Blaylock and Redline and for James King. We are looking forward to playing festivals and events throughout the rest of the year. We are beginning to write material for our next CD and we always have a great time making music.
  
  Ch.L.: What's your latest CD and how's it doing?
  "Long Way Home" is our second CD. The feedback we have been getting is very positive. Listeners who know the band really like it. People new to our Chicago Style bluegrass are impressed and even folks trying bluegrass for the first time are enjoying it. It is available through the internet. A copy can be ordered through CDBaby and the CD can be downloaded through ITunes, Amazon, and most other internet music sites
  
  Ch.L.: How did you choose the title for the CD, is there a story behind it?
  Steve travels a lot for work. He wrote the song “Long Way Home’ when he was on the road. All of us have spent time on the road away from home and could relate to the song. We decided to use this as the title of the album.
  
  Ch.L.: Do you write the songs yourself and if not, how do you go about finding the songs for the your CD?
  We all provide ideas for songs and will write together. Steve is probably our most complete lyricist and writes the words to many of the songs we record. Mark and Bruce provide the music to fill out his basic melody and Evan has been instrumental in developing a broader range of tempo in the songs. Bruce and Mark will often bring in an idea for an instrumental number and then trade breaks back and forth until they build a complete song.
  There are a number of traditional and cover songs that we perform live. We choose songs for the CD that have a different feel from those we have written in order to create a more varied and balanced CD.
  
  Ch.L.: Please tell us about the songs on your album.
  “Long Way Home” features eight original numbers by members of the band including the instrumentals “Come Christmas” and “Pruschnya”, the gospel numbers “My Savior Has Prayed For Me” and “Steppin’ Stones”, and the title track “Long Way Home”. The final three originals, “I Need The Sun To Shine”, “I Cry Alone”, and “The Girl I Dreamed Of” are fine examples of bluegrass “love” songs.
  
  “Long Way Home” also includes covers of the classic bluegrass numbers “Long Black Veil”, “Will You Be Loving Another Man”, “You Can Have Her”, Doing My Time”, “Old Flames”, and “Walls Of Time”.
  
  The CD rounds out the 17 selections with the band’s arrangements of three traditional numbers “Poor Wayfaring Stranger”, “Nine Pound Hammer”, and “Cold Rain and Snow”.
  
  This is our second CD - there are things we are hoping to improve the next time we go in the studio. But right now - this is where we are musically and we are proud of how "Long Way Home" came out.
  
  Ch.L.: How much creative control do you have over your music?
  We are an indie band. We do all of our own booking, managing, and promotion. While this can be a lot of work, we divide the duties up and it has been working for us so far. We have 100% creative control of our projects. While it is great to have this much freedom, it also forces us to be our own harshest critics. We have been trying to video all of our stage shows recently and we will often record our practices. We also spend a lot of time listening to our fans, the reviewers, and the DJ's that play our CDs. Any of your readers that would like to know more about the band can visit our website at www.trumansridge.com. Anyone who has questions or who would like to let us know what they think of our music is welcome to e-mail us at trumansridge@yahoo.com .
  
  
  Ch.L.: Is there anyplace you haven't played that you would like to?
  We would really like to play a bluegrass night at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. We would also be interested in playing in Europe. Maybe someday soon we will have an opportunity to play at some of your favorite festivals and venues.
  
  Ch.L.. What message would you like to send your European fans?
  We appreciate hearing from you. Feel free to send us an e-mail at trumansridge@yahoo.com. We think it is exciting when we see hits on our website from different countries. You can see videos of the band performing on Youtube and through our website www.trumansridge.com . Thank you for your interest in bluegrass. And as we tell all of our fans - thanks for listening!
  
  

Setlist

The following is a sample set list for a 3 hour show. We tailor our set list to the venue and audience. We also have an all Gospel set available.

Set 1
Truman’s Ridge
I’ll Go Steppin’ Too
Rocky Road Blues
Little Maggie
Folsum Prison Blues
Old Flames
Foggy Mtn Breakdown
Crying Holy Unto the Lord
Blue & Lonesome
Blackjack Co. Chains
Cripple Creek
Old Home Place
Doin’ My Time
Nine Pound Hammer
Long Way Home
Driving Nails

Set 2
Old Joe Clark
I Cried Again
Walking the Dog
Raining, Raining, Raining
Love of the Mountains
Long Black Veil
Bluegrass Breakdown
Will You Be Loving Another Man
Cold Rain & Snow
Steppin’ Stones
Come Christmas
The Girl I Love
How Mountain Girls Can Love
Shallow Grave
Three Men on a Mountain
Light at the River

Set 3
Mighty Dark to Travel
Dear Old Dixie
Are You Missing Me
Up this Hill & Down
Fox on the Run
My Savior Has Prayed For Me
County I
I Need the Sun to Shine
Walls of Time
A Good Woman’s Love
Pruschnya
You Can Have Her
I Cry Alone
Mexican Prison
Old Crossroads
Rawhide

Basic Requirements

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