Having WNCW as our hometown station provides a sounding-board and a resource for SCR and so many other fine bands from our area. Hearing great new music played alongside the classics gives a true perspective on how it all fits together. WNCW also serves as a reminder of how effective and inspirational community radio can be. Thanks WNCW! - Graham Sharp (Banjo, Vocals), Steep Canyon Rangers
While Steep Canyon Rangers are at core a bluegrass band, the sextet is known to mix varying styles of bluegrass and Americana into their music. The Grammy Award winning group calls western North Carolina home and WNCW is proud to share their music on our airwaves. Members include Woody Platt (guitar), Graham Sharp (banjo), Charles R. Humphrey III (bass), Mike Guggino (mandolin), Nicky Sanders (fiddle) and Mike Ashworth (box kit). The band is also known for collaborations with actor/comedian and respected banjo player Steve Martin and esteemed singer-songwriter Edie Brickel.
WNCW's Music Director, Martin Anderson, says, "as a “flagship bluegrass station”, and one that loves featuring regional talent, there’s no question we’ve enjoyed playing the Steep Canyon Rangers since their first record in 2002. But watching them progress in their songwriting, musicianship, and innovations over these past 14 years has been deeply rewarding to see. Add to that their inspiring philanthropy for the region, and the passionate support from their fans, and there’s no question they’re one of WNCW’s favorite acts."
Steep Canyon Rangers visited WNCW's Studio B for a live performance and interview in 2013. Since the band's last visit to the station, they have released their ninth studio album, Radio. The album was released in 2015 and illustrates the band's dynamic songwriting, instrumental virtuosity and high-energy performance. Radio follows Steep Canyon Rangers’ 2013 release, Tell the Ones I Love, which Bluegrass Today praised as “…a great mixture of today’s bluegrass styles, excellent harmonies, and a few surprises…an excellent album…”
Nearly half of the Steep Canyon Rangers have joined WNCW Music Hosts in the air studio as Guest DJs over the past few years. Tune in for more to take over the airwaves here in the future!
Learn more about Steep Canyon Rangers at www.steepcanyon.com.