New Dangerfield

New Dangerfield is a Black string band formed in 2023 to carry the torch of the Black string band tradition. Originally conceptualized by award-winning banjoist Tray Wellington, the group enlisted three other acclaimed Black roots musicians: multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Kaïa Kater, bassist Nelson Williams (Chris Jones & the Night Drivers), and fiddler and singer Jake Blount. The four members are Tray Wellington on banjo, Kaïa Kater on guitar and banjo with vocals, Nelson Williams on bass, and Jake Blount on fiddle and vocals. New Dangerfield is on a mission to reignite the Black string band tradition, honoring the often-overlooked contributions of Black musicians to American roots music. After a handful of rehearsals, New Dangerfield played out for the first time on September 30, 2023 at the IBMA Bluegrass Live festival in Raleigh, NC. Their music represents a powerful reclamation of musical heritage, performing traditional songs and original compositions that celebrate the Black roots of bluegrass and old-time music. With members who are all acclaimed artists in their own right, New Dangerfield brings exceptional musicianship and deep historical knowledge to their performances, creating music that is both entertaining and educational.

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