If you go
› What: The Malpass Brothers› Where: UTC Fine Arts Center, 752 Vine St.› When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 8› Admission: $15, $10 for students› For more information: www.utc.edu/fine-arts-center
In an age of country-pop and bro-country, brothers Christopher and Taylor Malpass remain loyal to traditional country music. They've opened for Merle Haggard, shared stages with Willie Nelson, Doyle Lawson, Rhonda Vincent, Doc Watson and Marty Stuart.
With honesty and an utter ease onstage, they pay respect to legends who have paved the way for today's musicians. Add in the funny, off-the-cuff quips between the two 20-something siblings, and their concerts become magnetic.
The Malpass Brothers bring their retro sound to town Thursday, March 8, for an American Discovery Performance in the UTC Fine Arts Center.
"My brother, Taylor, and I do the type of music we do because this music speaks to us, and speaks to the souls of its listeners," Christopher Malpass states on the brothers' website.
"For us, traditional country music is the real deal - every song portrays life's joys, heartaches, problems and happiness. It comes from the heart, and has depth and truth. Nothing is sugar-coated. Our goal is to see this music be revived, to help ensure it doesn't fade away. It is so encouraging to have young people come to our shows with a new interest in our 'old music.' Being able to introduce what we love to another generation feels like a great accomplishment for us."
The title cut from the brothers' first album, "Memory That Bad," broke into CMT "Pure Country's" Top 10. Their 2015 self-titled recording was produced by bluegrass legend Doyle Lawson.
Their latest CD, "Live at the Paramount Theatre," along with a live performance DVD, "Love They Neighbor," is available on their website and are sold at their live shows. The concert was filmed for the recently completed public television documentary, "The Malpass Brothers: Heading Home."
Fans of country music with words that tell "real stories" will find this a performance not to be missed.
For more information: 423-425-4269.