Cherry Blossom Carousel
Featuring
Wicked Sycamore
This monthly series, hosted by Cherry Blossom Special, will feature a joint performance with a guest artist, as well as occasional jams.
The next showcase in our series features Wicked Sycamore and Cherry Blossom Special.
Wicked Sycamore is an all-female trio hailing from the Baltimore/DC area, consisting of Juliette Bell on guitar, Lainie Gray on mandolin, and Madeline Waters on cello. Their sound can be described as contemporary folk with a mischievous edge that is grounded in traditional roots, Americana, and bluegrass. They write original music ranging from fun and light-hearted sing-alongs to deep, introspective tunes for the ages. No matter the genre, their music relies heavily on intricate vocal harmonies, thoughtful arrangement, and instrumental prowess. By growing their presence as a collaborative force, they hope to increase female representation as both musicians and songwriters throughout the modern music landscape.
Details
7112 Willow Ave
Takoma Park, MD 20912
CHERRY BLOSSOM SPECIAL
Drawing from the rich history of Washington D.C.’s acoustic music sphere, the folk quintet’s compositions and arrangements seek to go beyond storytelling. Rather, the group uses their vibrant music to examine the complex spectrum that blends tradition and innovation, begging the question, what do the stories we tell say about ourselves?
Award-winning vocalist and mandolinist, Nick Cameron , brings technical proficiency that allows them to pen sharp and forward thinking arrangements. Banjoist and lyricist, Gabby Cameron, pulls songwriting inspiration from her ethnomusicological scholarship, having been named the 2022 IBMA Neil Rosenberg Bluegrass Scholar for her groundbreaking research in Jewish bluegrass music. Cellist, Sophie Chang, brings rhythmic vitality through her experience as a versatile contra dance musician. Enhancing the group’s genre ambiguity, Mari Carlson’s playing styles range from traditional Swedish fiddle to keen jazz violin. Guitarist, Justin Heath, offers the group a mellow and intuitive tone, bridging his harmonic insight from jazz and tango with bluegrass flatpicking.
