In the ever-evolving world of bluegrass music, Mountain Heart stands out as a band that has consistently pushed boundaries while staying true to the heart of the genre. Founded in the late 1990s, the band had already established itself as a powerhouse of talent and innovation before Josh Shilling joined their ranks on January 5, 2007. That very evening, Shilling, a fresh face at just 23, stepped onto the legendary Grand Ole Opry stage with Mountain Heart, performing a song he had penned himself. This marked not just his debut with the band but also signaled a new chapter in Mountain Heart’s already illustrious journey, one that would further explore the depths of emotionally resonant bluegrass, creating songs that truly come from the heart.
The Bluegrass Roots and Beyond
Mountain Heart’s story is deeply rooted in bluegrass tradition. By 2007, they had already spent a decade honing their craft, earning accolades and a reputation for their dynamic performances. Their early sound was a vibrant tapestry woven from diverse influences, all within the framework of bluegrass. They were seen as a band carrying forward the innovative spirit of 90s bluegrass into a new era. This foundation of bluegrass expertise was crucial, providing a solid base from which they could explore new musical territories.
However, the arrival of Josh Shilling brought a distinctive element to the band’s sonic palette. Even before he introduced his piano into the mix – which later became a signature feature – it was evident that Shilling’s musical background was different. While some bands maintain a consistent sound despite personnel changes, and others evolve their sound with a stable lineup, Mountain Heart has uniquely experienced both. Over time, none of the original founding members remained, and in many ways, their original sound also transformed. Yet, this evolution felt organic, deliberate, and largely guided by Shilling, a musician’s musician capable of captivating both fellow musicians and large audiences.
Josh Shilling’s Impact: Injecting Soul and Diversity
Shilling’s musical upbringing was steeped in the sounds of the Blue Ridge Mountains, placing him geographically close to bluegrass luminaries like Sammy Shelor and studios frequented by Dan Tyminski and Ronnie Bowman. Bluegrass was in his surroundings and in his father’s record collection, but his personal musical compass pointed towards the piano. He was drawn to artists like Ray Charles, the Allman Brothers, and Leon Russell. This eclectic mix of influences shaped his early musical endeavors, which included stints in country and rock bands before landing in a straight-up R&B band. It was during this R&B phase, performing songs by Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles, that Shilling truly developed his vocal style and honed his musical chops, absorbing a rich harmonic vocabulary.
This diverse musical background was instrumental in Mountain Heart’s transformation. Integrating Shilling’s R&B and soul influences into a bluegrass context was initially unexpected, perhaps even jarring to some purists. However, this fusion broadened their appeal, attracting a more diverse and younger fanbase. This willingness to evolve and embrace new sounds has been a key factor in Mountain Heart’s longevity. The band’s continuous reinvention, marked by the influx of incredible musicians over the years, has kept their music fresh and exciting. Shilling credits this constant evolution, along with improved songwriting, as the pillars supporting their two-decade-long journey.
Fostering Musical Growth and Individuality
One of Mountain Heart’s defining characteristics is their ability to nurture individual musical growth within the band dynamic. They don’t just bring together talented bluegrass musicians; they create an environment where these musicians can explore and expand their musical identities beyond genre constraints. The band members are encouraged to “find themselves” within the music. This philosophy is evident in their approach to new members. For instance, when Seth Taylor joined as a guitarist, his unconventional style, far removed from traditional bluegrass guitarists like Tony Rice, was not only accepted but celebrated. Mountain Heart provided the space for Taylor to evolve into a “force of nature” on the guitar. Similarly, Aaron Ramsey’s transformation from a reserved mandolin player focused solely on technical precision to a dynamic and engaging frontman exemplifies the band’s nurturing environment.
This supportive atmosphere fosters both individual brilliance and collective synergy. While there are musical parameters and arrangements to guide their performances, Mountain Heart thrives on pushing these boundaries. They create a space for improvisation and spontaneity within their live shows. Songs like “Soul Searching” or “More Than I Am” can stretch into extended live versions, allowing for nightly variations and musical exploration. This freedom of expression, coupled with mutual respect and a healthy dose of competitive spirit among band members, fuels their dynamic performances. Even on off nights, the band members express genuine appreciation for each other’s musicianship, creating a positive and encouraging atmosphere.
The Evolution of Sound and Songwriting
Mountain Heart’s evolution is not solely about personnel changes; it’s also a conscious and continuous refinement of their sound and songwriting. The band has consistently pushed the boundaries of bluegrass, incorporating elements from various genres while maintaining a core identity rooted in heartfelt musicality. Their willingness to experiment with arrangements, rhythms, and instrumentation has resulted in a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly innovative. This evolution is further driven by a commitment to improving their songwriting with each record. By focusing on crafting compelling narratives and emotionally resonant melodies, Mountain Heart ensures that their music connects with listeners on a deeper level.
“Soul Searching”: A Testament to Musical Exploration
Their album, Soul Searching, epitomizes this journey of musical exploration. The title track, co-written by Shilling and Jeremy Garrett of the Infamous Stringdusters, sets the tone for an album that delves into introspective themes and rich musical textures. The album’s creation was a lengthy process, beginning years before the actual recording. Ideas and song structures were developed and refined over time, sometimes through simple voice memos exchanged between band members like Shilling and Seth Taylor. The song “Festival” provides a fascinating example of this evolution. Initially conceived as a slow ballad, it was reimagined with a driving bass line inspired by “Day Tripper” and “Low Rider,” transforming it into a high-energy track perfectly suited for the album.
Prior to entering the studio, Mountain Heart meticulously prepared for the recording sessions. They spent two days rehearsing the songs as a band, simulating a live performance setup, complete with lead vocals through a PA system. These rehearsals were recorded, allowing them to fine-tune tempos, keys, arrangements, and instrumentation. This detailed pre-production resulted in an incredibly efficient recording process. They tracked all eleven songs and lead vocals for Soul Searching in just three days, with Shilling’s lead vocals largely recorded live with the band. The subsequent days were dedicated to adding finishing touches, with contributions from renowned musicians like Kenny Malone, Scott Vestal, Ronnie Bowman, and Stuart Duncan.
A Band-Produced Project: Embracing DIY and Fan Connection
Soul Searching is a testament to Mountain Heart’s collaborative spirit, extending beyond the music itself into the entire production process. The album is band-produced, reflecting their desire for complete creative control. This hands-on approach extended to the album artwork as well. After exploring options with various artists, they ultimately took a DIY approach. Seth Taylor’s hand-drawn herringbone frame, captured on a cell phone and refined by Shilling’s wife, Aleah, a graphic designer, became the album’s distinctive visual element. This level of involvement in every aspect of the project, from songwriting to artwork, reflects a desire to create an authentic and deeply personal musical statement.
This DIY ethos also reflects a growing trend in the music industry, where artists seek to forge a more direct connection with their fans. Mountain Heart recognizes and embraces this shift. They understand that fans appreciate the personal touch and the story behind the music. By sharing drawings and other handmade elements with pre-orders and CD orders, they foster a stronger bond with their audience.
Conclusion
Mountain Heart’s journey is a compelling narrative of evolution, innovation, and a deep commitment to creating emotionally resonant music. From their bluegrass roots to their genre-bending explorations, they have consistently demonstrated a willingness to take risks and push creative boundaries. Josh Shilling’s arrival marked a pivotal moment, injecting soul, diversity, and a spirit of musical adventure into the band. Their album Soul Searching stands as a powerful testament to their artistic vision, collaborative spirit, and enduring ability to craft bluegrass songs that resonate deeply with the heart.
