Pine Mountain Bluegrass Jamboree & BBQ
By Kristin Yarbrough. Published in the Blount Countian on August 17, 2022.
Pine Mountain Bluegrass Jamboree promises plenty of pickin', grinnin', and finger-lickin' on Saturday, August 27. The free, family-friendly event features live performances, jamming, open stage, a potluck, Trade Day, and concessions.
House band Pine Mountain Bluegrass takes the stage at 5 p.m., followed by headliners Another Town at 6 p.m., each offering a unique take on this traditional Americana music genre that combines storytelling, harmonies, improvisation, and nimble finger-work on acoustic stringed instruments.
Another Town, who has played at Pine Mountain many times, has become increasingly prominent in recent years. "They have a great harmony," said fellow musician Freddy Clowdus, who plays banjo with Pine Mountain Bluegrass and is a resident of Oneonta, "and they are extremely talented." Another Town's members have worked with many of bluegrass's top touring acts, and dobro player Damion Kidd is a Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention three-time winner.
Pine Mountain Bluegrass Jamborees welcome fans from across the state for monthly events from April to October. "It's a real nice atmosphere where the children and family can come," Clowdus said.
"Pine Mountain is one of the best venues in the area," added Adam Duke, Another Town's guitar player and a resident of Cullman. "Some of the best and friendliest people you could ever meet. Not to mention the food is always great."
With a potluck at 2:30 pm and grilled bologna sandwiches, hot dogs, chips, and drinks from 5–7 p.m, attendees are well-fed. This month, a special Trade Day at Bluegrass from 3:30–5 p.m. offers even more snacks and treats, plus produce, honey, jams, and crafts from Pine Mountain's growers and makers.
"The main thing is the preservation of bluegrass music," said Clowdus, who also serves on the board of Alabama Bluegrass Music Association. He encouraged musicians to "bring your instrument, and people will be glad to show you things and help you out. And if anybody is really hankering to show their stuff," Clowdus added, "we've got an open stage to start with." Musicians are invited for jamming from 1–3 p.m. and open stage from 3–5 p.m.
The Saturday, August 27 event is from 1–7 p.m., rain or shine, at Pine Mountain Community Center, 4477 Pine Mountain Road, Remlap. Parking and entry are free. Full information is at https://pinemountain.info/bluegrass.