Formed in 1994 in Lexington, in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, Nothin' Fancy plays crisp, down-home bluegrass that ranges from traditionals to rootsy Americana and from moody folk to energetic barn-burners. The group, made up of singer/songwriter Mike Andes on mandolin, guitars, and vocals; Gary Farris on guitar; Tony Shorter on bass; Chris Sexton on fiddle and cello; and Mitchell Davis on pencillo and banjo, originally got together to enter a band competition, which they won. After nearly a decade of touring and playing together, Nothin' Fancy released their debut, Once Upon a Road, on Pinecastle Records in June of 2002. The record, beautifully produced by award-winner Don Rigsby, combines distinguished playing, spirituality, and friendly charisma to form a tribute the spirit and history of America. ~ Charles Spano