Colin and Kathleen Ray’s Debut Single, “Somewhere Among the Briars,” Brings a Fresh Sound to Bluegrass

For Colin and Kathleen, bluegrass is more than just music, it’s a way of life. Both grew up immersed in the genre, each starting their musical journeys at a young age. Before they even met, Colin had already made a name for himself in the world of bluegrass banjo, and Kathleen had honed her skills as a guitarist and vocalist. They had long been influenced by the legends of bluegrass, but it wasn’t until they crossed paths in the Bluegrass, Old Time, and Country Music program at ETSU that they realized their shared dream of blending tradition with innovation.

When Colin and Kathleen Ray met at East Tennessee State University, they had no idea that their shared love for bluegrass music would eventually lead to the creation of a powerful musical partnership. What began as a chance meeting between two passionate musicians has blossomed into Colin and Kathleen Ray, a husband-and-wife duo ready to make waves in the roots music world.

Their debut single, “Somewhere Among the Briars”, witten by Hugh Moffatt and John Scott Sherrill, marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their music career. Released through Mountain Fever Records, the song brings a modern twist to the timeless sounds of bluegrass, fusing traditional elements with a fresh perspective.

The Making of “Somewhere Among the Briars”

The creation of “Somewhere Among the Briars” was a labor of love. Colin and Kathleen worked closely with grammy winning producer Randy Kohrs (Slack Key Studio) and a talented group of musicians from their time at ETSU, including Aynsley Porchak on fiddle, Justin Alexander on banjo, and Max Etling on bass. Together, they crafted a track that is both deeply rooted in bluegrass traditions and fresh in its approach.

“We heard the song while listening on Youtube one evening,” explains Kathleen. “It was originally recorded by Hugh Moffatt in a more folksy style, yet when we heard it, we knew it would be the perfect song for us. It’s about a journey, both physical and emotional to find that love that all of us seek. It addresses the pain and suffering as well as the hope that keeps us searching!”

Bluegrass with a Modern Twist

What sets “Somewhere Among the Briars” apart from other bluegrass songs is the balance it strikes between honoring the genre’s history and bringing something new to the table. While the song stays true to bluegrass’ rich traditions, featuring banjo, guitar, fiddle and harmonies, it also introduces a modern sound that resonates with today’s listeners.

“We didn’t want to just recreate what’s already been done. We wanted to bring our own voice into the mix,” says Colin. “Bluegrass is a living genre, it evolves with each generation. We felt we had something to contribute to that evolution.”

Kathleen agrees, “We wanted to make sure we were staying true to the roots, but also pushing the boundaries a little. It’s about blending the old and the new in a way that feels natural. That’s the beauty of bluegrass, it can grow and change while still honoring the traditions that came before it.”

The duo’s fresh perspective shines through in every note of “Somewhere Among the Briars”. The song’s arrangement combines elements of classic bluegrass with a more contemporary production style, creating a sound that feels both familiar and new. It’s a perfect introduction to their unique musical vision and a glimpse into what’s to come.

What’s Next for Colin and Kathleen Ray?

With “Somewhere Among the Briars” now out in the world, Colin and Kathleen Ray are already looking ahead to what’s next. The duo already has plans to release more singles and eventually an album that will showcase their growth as artists.

“We’re just getting started,” says Colin. “This is an exciting time for us, and we’re really grateful for the support we’ve received so far. We can’t wait to share more of our music with the world.”

Kathleen agrees, “There’s so much more we want to say with our music. “Somewhere Among the Briars” is just the beginning. We’re excited to see where this journey takes us, and we’re thrilled to have people join us along the way.”

With their debut single already making an impact, it’s clear that Colin and Kathleen Ray have a bright future ahead. Their commitment to roots music and their unique sound make them a duo to watch in the years to come.

Stay Connected

To follow Colin and Kathleen Ray’s journey and stay updated on future releases, visit their website at www.colinandkathleen.com or follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Their single can be accessed HERE.