The HillBenders w/The Mound City Slickers @ Wildey Theatre

The HillBenders

The HillBenders are an acoustic ensemble from Springfield, Missouri, deep in the heart of the Ozarks. Blending the raw energy of rock ‘n’ roll with the heart of bluegrass, their music feels as comfortable and familiar as your favorite t-shirt. With more than 15 years of touring experience and a trove of accolades, The HillBenders have built a reputation for high-energy performances, a diverse and dynamic song catalog, and a sense of humor that brings audiences together. Whether you’re dancing in the aisles or soaking it all in, their shows are about living in the moment and sharing the joy of music. Their original material and inventive mash-up projects, like the fan-favorite WhoGrass (a bluegrass tribute to The Who), along with collaborations with Keller Williams on GratefulGrass, PettyGrass, and KellerGrass, keep them on stages at festivals, theaters, and performing arts centers across the country and around the world.

The Mound City Slickers

The Mound City Slickers play old-time string band music with passion, drive, and a great sense of humor. Hailing from the St. Louis region, The Slickers have played festivals, house concerts and more than a few contra and square dances throughout Missouri and Illinois. Steeped in tradition, their concerts are a unique mix of hard-driving dance tunes, country harmonies, Midwest fiddle tunes, rags, and other surprises that have made them favorites of the old-time string band scene. Their high-energy playing and ear for a good tune make for good listening, good dancing, and good times. The band is Sean Belt (ukuleles), Lindell Blackford (fiddle & mandolin), Rich Hibbs (banjo), Rich Egan (piano), and Keith Dudding (guitar).