They are from New York, where a string band grows in Brooklyn. And it's not just one ya know, it is a veritable movement that is sprouting like grass through the concrete. None other than the venerable New Yorker Magazine has actually dubbed the movement "Citi-Billy!" The Defibulators are major proponents. I am only sorry that we didn't grill them on the spelling of the band's name. Is it a jolt to the heart delivered when you feel you want to obscure the truth? All I know is we got them out of bed ass-early, at 9 am, and they trooped in chipper of spirit, with nimble fingers and in fine voice. They have been referenced as The Carter Family meets The Ramones. There were a whole mess of them is all I know, visiting the Sweet Suite at the Sheraton: Erin Bru (vocals), Bug Jennings (vocals, banjo, and rhythm guitar), Roadblock (electric guitar), Smitty the Giant Fiddler (fiddle), Spencer Zahn (upright bass), Metalbelly (washboard, percussion, harmonica), and Mike Riddleberger (drums). Nice names, and yes, Music Fog had to employ the Schmitty Cam once again!
The Defibulators debut CD is called Corn Money, and the band has been touring in support, all over the U.S. and in Europe. Their serious road dog ways continue with a fervor, and you can catch up with them as there are lots of dates scheduled. Their vehicle delivers needed care, and they are mighty spiffy dressers when giving aid! And just when you think you have seen it all, they have been enshrined in a coloring book that you can view here. What can I say? We like it all, and the Music Fog crew spontaneously erupted into a standing "O," first thing in the morning of Day Two at the Americana Music Festival last week in Nashville. Call the doctor, we need more!
- Jessie Scott
