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 audience into the ancient 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, the audience falls silent in anticipation of mandolinist Ron Thomason's knowing, unsentimental evocation of mountain culture, and is repeatedly rendered helpless with laughter by his brilliantly wry, 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.