Banjo Nickaru & Western Scooches

Published: May 6, 2018, 8 p.m.

Join us this week as we welcome the Americana band, Banjo Nickaru & Western Scooches. New York City's Banjo Nickaru & Western Scooches are likely the only band today infusing elements of Gullah-Geechee and world rhythms with folk traditions, Americana, New Orleans influences, and 1920s jazz. The forthcoming sophomore album, "Get Us Out Of Fearland", due June 15 2018, builds upon the multicultural exuberance that made the band’s debut album, "Very Next Thing", a transcendent breath of fresh air. Highlights of "Get Us Out Of Fearland" include the playful 1920s verve of “I Don’t Need No Glasses,” the warm lilting embrace of “I Wish The World Knew Why,” the organ-driven, gospel-tinged “Dandelion” (featuring special guest vocalists, Stephanie Rice and Charenee Wade), and “Soar,” an inspirational song filled with optimism, determination, and perseverance. The band members include: Nick Russo - guitar/banjo/resonator/composer/band leader, Betina Hershey - voice/guitar/composer, Emiliano Valerio - cajón/percussion, Miles Griffith - voice/composer, and Dr. David Pleasant - percussions. We will talk to them about their upcoming schedule, get a behind the scenes look at their music, feature their latest songs, and ask them to share their message for the troops. Please be sure to visit Banjo Nickaru & Western Scooches at http://banjonickaru.com/ and spread the word. And as always we will give shout outs to our deployed military listeners. Our message to the troops: WE do what we do, because YOU do what you do.