Dynamic Birmingham-based bluegrass quartet, The Mountain Grass Unit, is thrilled to announce the release of their new single, “Hey Mama,” today. This evocative track serves as a preview for their highly anticipated 5-song studio EP, Runnin’ From Trouble, set to drop on September 20, 2024.
“Hey Mama” is a masterclass in musical craftsmanship, featuring inquisitive and buoyant instrumentation. The track is propelled by rapid-fire picking and shimmering harmonies, creating a spirited celebration of bluegrass and Americana. Fiddler Josiah Nelson patiently weaves his silky violin lines, which build to a soaring solo that reaches an epic climax.
“Hey Mama" is a tune written around the idea of leaving one chapter in life in exchange for another,” explains Drury Anderson (mandolin, vocals). “The band recorded this one with the intention of displaying a more “live” sound that you might hear at an MGU show. We are super excited to release this one and hope that our listeners enjoy!”
LISTEN | Mountain Grass Unit - “Hey Mama”
PRE-SAVE | Mountain Grass Unit - Runnin’ From Trouble
The forthcoming EP, Runnin’ From Trouble, further explores the themes and styles introduced in “Hey Mama.” Recorded at Nashville’s Hartland Studios, produced by Mike Harris (Old Crow Medicine Show), and mixed by Morgan Jahnig (Old Crow Medicine Show), each track on the EP showcases the band’s unique ability to blend traditional bluegrass with elements of country, jazz, funk, rock, and even metal. This ability has set Mountain Grass Unit apart on the bluegrass scene and has won them a devoted following.
As all three members approach the completion of their undergraduate studies in spring 2025, they are more determined than ever to continue pushing the boundaries of bluegrass. Runnin’ From Trouble is a testament to their dedication and passion for their craft.
2024 has been a landmark year for Mountain Grass Unit, with standout performances at major festivals such as DelFest, Rooster Walk Festival, and WinterWondergrass. These experiences have influenced the sound and direction of their new EP, injecting it with the energy and exuberance that fans have come to love.
The quartet will celebrate the release of Runnin’ From Trouble with a very special performance at Louisville, KY’s Bourbon and Beyond on September 21. From there, Mountain Grass Unit heads to Buena Vista, CO for Billy Strings’ Renewal on September 27th and 28th. Later this fall, the band will appear at Opelika, AL’s Live on the Plains on November 9 opening for Tyler Childers, and Boulder, CO’s Boulder Theater on November 29th supporting Leftover Salmon. Announced today, on December 27th, Mountain Grass Unit will take the stage at Birmingham, AL’s Iron City for a very special hometown headlining show. Artist presale starts Tuesday, September 10th and general on sale is Friday, September 13th at 10am CT.
For more information, tour dates, and to connect with Mountain Grass Unit, please visit the band’s official website.
