. . . combine the rustic appeal of Old Crow’s slower bluegrass classics with the Infamous Stringdusters’ contemporary jam-band elements. – Epicast
Buffalo Rose is, in the words of its singer/songwriter/guitarist Shane McLaughlin, “not ‘cher Momma’s bluegrass.” Formed in Pittsburgh, PA in 2016, the group blends folk, soul, and bluegrass into something amorphously Americana, but decidedly their own. Three prominent singers (McLaughlin, Lucy Clabby, and Rosanna Spindler) provide stunning vocal harmonies over dynamic, engrossing layers of stringed instruments. Specifically, acoustic guitar (McLaughlin), upright bass (Jason Rafalak), mandolin (Bryce Rabideau), and Dobro (Malcolm Inglis.) Their sharp sense of rhythmic experimentation and evocative, storytelling lyricism come together for a sound with both shimmer and punch; it’s foot-tapping and breathtaking in turn. Buffalo Rose offers a warm, passionate homage to America’s classic musical traditions, with modern twists that keep things interesting—and damn fun.
It all started with the song Mama Have Mercy. The three singers got together with Inglis to record a live take of the song for the FoundSound Songwriter Series. “Before the video was shot,” says McLaughlin, “we knew that this was something we had to keep doing together.”
Buffalo Rose soon grew to include Rabideau and Rafalak, and they released their debut EP, Red Wagon, in November 2016—just six months after their formation. The local response was enthusiastic. Encouraged, they started to work on a longer record. Meanwhile, their captivating stage presence and strong musicianship scored them lineup spots alongside national acts such as The Infamous Stringdusters, The Dustbowl Revival, Yarn, and Dangermuffin. Their first full-length album, The Soil and the Seed, was released on March 30th, 2018. It received glowing attention from Pittsburgh media, including features on local radio station 91.3 WYEP.
. . . sun-soaked harmonies . . . bluegrass, and earthy Americana. – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
- I Can Get High Buffalo Rose 2:43
- Momma Have Mercy Buffalo Rose 4:00
- The River Song Buffalo Rose 3:01
- Hold Me Buffalo Rose 4:05