THE Coal Porters are the world’s first alt-bluegrass band and they are headlining at String Jam Club in Selkirk this Saturday.

With Kentuckian Sid Griffin and his witty banter at the helm, the five-piece outfit use banjos, mandolins and fiddles to whip up a feel-good storm.

They have made several visits to the String Jam Club over its 20 year history, to entertain Borders music-lovers.

Formed originally in the 1990s by ex-Long Ryder Sid in Los Angeles, the band eventually left its electric instrumentation behind and moved to the UK, slowly mutating into the inimitable acoustic act they are today.

You never quite know what to expect from the Coal Porters, but you can be certain of traditional bluegrass themes and melodies from the past revved up for the 21st century, and delivered with with style, panache, energy, great humour and simply superb musicianship.

String Jam promoter Allie Fox told us: "The Coal Porters' immaculate instrumental bluegrass style is matched by a fantastic choice of sometimes unexpected material and knife-edge vocal harmonies.

"Their latest album, entitled No 6, was produced by British folk-rock legend John Wood, who engineered and produced all of the early Fairport Convention classic albums as well as Squeeze, John Cale, and the entire Nick Drake catalogue. "

The Coal Porters have toured the world, wowing audiences at numerous UK, European & US venues and major festivals, including Glastonbury.

They have played many live radio sessions for the likes of Whispering Bob Harris and Marc Riley.

Allie added: "The String Jam Club's favourite bluegrass band is set to take the place by storm again.

"Imagine if Bill Monroe met The Clash, and you’ve got an idea of what’s in store.

"Sid's merry band are famous for whipping up the most lethargic of crowds and will have you dancing on the tables in no time."

The Coal Porters play the String Jam Club, at the County Hotel, on Saturday (October 7). Tickets, priced at £14, are available from 01750-721233 or Eventbrite. Doors open 7.30 pm.

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