If you go
› What: Caney Creek Company› Where: Songbirds Guitar Museum, 35 Station St.› When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 20› Admission: $10› For more information: 423-531-2473
From the beginning, Caney Creek Company has been a story of friendship.
The group formed when vocalist and banjo picker Konstantine Vlasis recruited Katie Bradford (fiddle, vocals), Corey Bradford (guitar) and Drew Streip (mandolin), none of whom were bluegrass pickers. Three of them weren't even playing their primary instrument.
Their first rehearsal started with three songs and no expectations but to have fun. However, it was evident that they had promise. Friends and family convinced them to keep writing songs.
Doug Ford, a longtime friend and bass player, joined the band. Within weeks of buying his first upright bass, he was integral to the group. They learned covers, honed their instrumental chops, and even started thinking about their appearance. Most important: They booked some gigs outside of the living room.
Their breakout performance came at the 2016 Road to Nightfall contest, where the quintet advanced to the finals and earned an opening spot for The Ballroom Thieves. They've since played Riverbend Festival and other music festivals across the state.
Catch Caney Creek Saturday night, Jan. 20, at Songbirds Guitar Museum. Doors open one hour before the 7 p.m. show.
For more information: 423-531-2473.