The Avett Brothers / Matt Butcher

In the past year, the Avett Brothers have gone from relative unknowns to the poster children of a brand new and rapidly growing genre of American music. And while critics and fans alike have trouble agreeing on just what that genre should be called (indie roots, folk-punk, grungegrass, the list goes on and on), no one seems to have any trouble agreeing on the fact that the Avett Brothers are taking American roots music to brand new and exciting places.

“Startling power… all over the map of acoustic American music, the Avetts are musically loose, a bit florid…and able to burn up the stage.” Los Angeles Times

“Heavy sadness of Townes Van Zandt, the light pop concision of Buddy Holly, the tuneful jangle of the Beatles, the raw energy of the Ramones.” San Francisco Chronicle

“You could get splinters listening to these guys.” San Diego Union Tribune

“The finest example of indie-roots in action. Known for their wildly creative take on bluegrass, they stray with ease, often finding themselves belting out early-Beatles pop harmonies, or dredging up brief moments of loud rock.” The Portland Mercury