Welcome Ross Holmes and Gibb Droll!

Exciting times on the good ship Noisemakers, as two renowned musicians jump on board… please welcome Ross Holmes and Gibb Droll!

Ross Holmes and his fiddle and mandolin have appeared most notably with Mumford & Sons, and I gather from their fanbase that he was a hugely popular member. Also latterly forming the Chessboxer duo with Matt Menefee, they released a self-titled EP in 2013.

Here’s Ross in action:

Gibb Droll’s style is described as “pure and unscripted… never one to be complacent, he continues to push his own artistic envelope.” (Jambase) Doesn’t he sound like he’ll fit right in?! A guitar player with a definite blues slant makes this an intriguing addition indeed.

You can hear for Gibb for yourself:

Rick Holmes
Rick Holmes
Gibb Droll
Gibb Droll

Bobby and Doug both made invaluable, irreplaceable contributions to the music. And they are not being replaced – there is no sax player in the world who could replace Bobby Read. Same for the harmonies and guitar of Doug Derryberry. We’re being treated to something new… a change in direction, just as when The Range went their separate ways, and later when John Molo, Debbie Henry, Michael Baker, John d’Earth and co moved on (and it’s notable that they have all guested since).

Such changes have earnt our close attention for the last thirty years. This is actually the first turnaround in permanent band members since Sonny joined in 2002, so it marks an exciting time in Noisemakers history. Many of you have commented to me how much colour Andy Leftwich added when Bruce and Ricky Skaggs would trade musicians on tour, so a fiddle is a wonderful addition. Likewise with a change in voice across the stage on guitar.

As the band evolves, so will the songs. That’s exciting.

I know you’ll enjoy this new flavour to the banquet we’re served up each tour. You’ll soon get a chance to be a part of it – check out the upcoming Bruce Hornsby and the Noisemakers summer tour dates. The new guys will likely be bringing some new fans of their own along for the ride!

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Si. May 11, 2014 at 3:22 pm

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