David Davis & the Warrior River Boys

David and the band snapped rave reviews with their self-titled 2004 release on Rebel Records - “….sure-fire picking and train whistle harmonies.” - USA Today

“An excellent instrumentalist in the Monroe style of mandolin, Davis is also among the most emotive, capable, and underappreciated singers in bluegrass.” - Sing Out Magazine

“…hard-charging energy that make it stand out from the pack” - Bluegrass Unlimited

David Davis and the Warrior River Boys offered their usual very high quality two sets. Hailing from Alabama, Davis plays straight up Monroe style mandolin. His clear, fast picking is nearly flawless, and he complements it with a fine mid-range tenor voice that easily slips falsetto when necessary. Robert Montgomery, a neighbor of Davis’ has joined the band on banjo. He plays very good breaks and backup, serving as a good addition to the band. Long-time bassist Marty Hayes’ voice blends very well with Davis’ as they showed so ably on a Louvin Brothers duet in their second set. Paul Priest on guitar sings very well, plays strong rhythm, and offers quality flat picking. Owen Saunders on fiddle is one of the best. His laconic style belies powerful playing and tasteful backup. One of Davis’ strongest songs is a recounting of the death by friendly fire of Stonewall Jackson at “Chancellorsville.” This is an essential work for fans of Civil War songs, much better musically than, say, the “Ballad of the Rebel Soldier.” Another strong song “Gold Watch and Chain” examines the small rewards for a life of hard work. Davis and his band are important parts of the bluegrass world and much deserve wider recognition and play. - Ted Lehmann's Bluegrass, Books, and Brainstorms

Hi David,

Thank you very much for the wonderful concert that you and your band presented in Paragould, Arkansas last night. You have an obvious love and respect for traditional bluegrass music, and that love showed through with every song you performed. You set a great example as a bandleader, and you were very generous in allowing each band member a chance to be in the spotlight themselves. I enjoyed too spending time with you and the band. Our crowd loved your performance, and we’d love to have you back again sometime in the future.

I wish you the best in promoting your band and your music. Again, let me know if there’s ever any way I can assist you. I sincerely hope that our paths cross again!

Marty Scarbrough
KASU Program Director

- KASU Radio