There’s something inherently ‘good’ about Del McCoury. I say this, never having met the man; although I’ve been close enough to photograph him on a number of occasions, and to have briefly exchanged pleasantries. But that doesn’t count, and I know it.. Yet, here I am – insisting that I have perceived enough about the man to proclaim him thus.

After four rounds of BMI's Road to Bonnaroo competition, four sonically distinct bands – The Non-Commissioned Officers, How I Became the Bomb, Caitlin Rose, and Space Capone – have each earned a coveted spot at the 2010 Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival. Sponsored by BMI, the competition gives Nashville the chance to show off some of its most-praised indie acts on a global stage.

As I was walking on the hill in Boulder to get some Chinese food and a beer before the show, I passed by a very animated and excited Jeff Austin (mandolin player from Yonder Mountain String Band) talking to a friend.