The Speakeasy Boys play traditional and non-traditional acoustic, bluegrass and old-time music, in their own unique zesty river hobo jug band style. The sound is very much like what you would hear at a jam circle – bluegrass and old-time tunes played in a rustic, upbeat, jam style, where each musician has the opportunity to play a tune and there are plenty of ‘breaks’ (solos). The musicians are a blend of various styles and musical backgrounds, so lots of different sounds and influences can be heard in their music.
The Speakeasy Boys consist of two guitars, mandolin, banjo, washtub bass, fiddle, harmonica, washboard and saw, though they frequently feature other instruments including a homemade tin-can contraption (affectionately named Jeb Junior) that is played with a pair of spoons, the nose-flute, kazoo, and electric lapsteel guitar. In addition to bluegrass and old-time, they also play country, gypsy swing, blues, folk, celtic, and have even been known to play rock, reggae, and other styles occasionally.
The Speakeasy Boys are all about having fun and wherever they go, it's a party!
photo by Todd Crawford