Why you should care: They blend classic bluegrass technique with touches of country, jazz, funk, rock and even metal, creating a tight, high-energy acoustic sound anchored by mandolin, guitar, fiddle and upright bass. Their 2024 debut EP, Runnin’ From Trouble (produced by Mike Harris of Old Crow Medicine Show), shows off intricate flatpicking, layered harmonies and the kind of tight interplay that reads great on record and absolutely roars live.
Lineup: Drury Anderson (mandolin, vocals), Luke Black (guitar, vocals), Josiah Nelson (fiddle, vocals), Sam Wilson (bass, vocals).
Genre: Bluegrass
Scheduled: Saturday
Listen / Watch:
- Bio at The Festival Voice
- Mountain Grass Unit – Full Session (Paste)
- “Big River” — DelFest Sessions
- “Blue Ridge Cabin Home” — Live at WinterWonderGrass (Mar 2024)
Reddit roundup: The r/bonnaroo thread picks MGU as a can’t-miss pick for bluegrass lovers. Fans praised the musicianship (several noting Luke Black as a standout), recommended catching them if you like Billy Strings’ players, and described the band as a must-see on the undercard. Highlights from the thread include:
- “One of the best on the lineup — musicianship/talent wise.”
- “DO NOT MISS THIS SHOW!!!!”
- “Fantastic set, must see if you like bluegrass.”
If you’re into virtuosic acoustic playing with jam-ready energy, Mountain Grass Unit looks to be one of the more exciting bluegrass acts on the bill. Have you seen them live? Drop your favorite songs and experience — crowd recs help others plan their schedules.
Days Until Bonnaroo: 125
Remember to drink water and warm up those high fives!
Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/bonnaroo/comments/1qxgkpv/artist_5_mountain_grass_unit/