Dry Branch Fire Squad has been a staple in the Old Time and Traditional Bluegrass world for 49 years now, with singer/songwriter/instrumentalist/comedian Ron Thomason leading the way. As the only band to have played at every single Gettysburg Bluegrass Festival, it’s clear to see why Dry Branch Fire Squad performs annually at many of the nations premier festivals; such as, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival, Strawberry Park, Festival of the Bluegrass, as well as the two national events that they host: Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival and High Mountain Hay Fever.

Dry Branch Fire Squad, the modern progenitors of “aggressively traditional mountain music” provides thoughtful harmony lines that give expression to the soulfulness and meaning of bluegrass and old-time music. The bands comprehensive knowledge of the roots of what’s been referred to as “music from the true vine” and its rather contemporary approach to bringing those roots to life with Ron’s social commentary, catchy lyrics and song choices from the oldest traditions makes DBFS one of the most entertaining bands in bluegrass.

Ron Thomason’s professional music career started when he was just 13, and he has collaborated with the likes of The Clinch Mountain Boys, Ricky Skaggs and Keith Whitley. He started Dry Branch Fire Squad in 1976 and is known to enjoy music-making more now than ever. All the band members are multi-instrumentalists, and they freely switch instruments and vocal parts as needed. Brian Aldridge, Jeff Byrd, and Evan Lanier, as well as Ron are all products of the Appalachians where they learned their love for Gospel and secular music, their respect for hard work, and their drive to share those ethics with others.