Inspired by a fierce and uncompromising loyalty to the most traditional aspects of bluegrass and old-time mountain music, Ohio-based Dry Branch Fire Squad draws its audiences into the emotional resonances in which bluegrass is rooted, and provides a strong taste of the culture in which it evolved. The quintet's approach is a timeless mix of straightforward stories, packed with emotion, sung from the heart to the uncluttered accompaniment of mandolin, guitar, banjo, and bass. Between songs, mandolinist Ron Thomason demonstrates his ability to silence an audience in anticipation of his knowing, unsentimental evocation of mountain culture and then roll them over in laughter with his all-too-true commentaries on life beyond Appalachia. Ron is joined by guitarists Adam McIntosh and Mary Jo Leet, Charlie Leet on bass, and Danny Russell on banjo. Last year, the group released its eleventh album, Memories that Bless and Burn (Rounder), showcasing the traditional gospel repertoire, from raucous bluegrass to sparse duets to a cappella quartets.