biographical info
Great Northern is a very different bluegrass band, and has recorded 3 CD’s. The band’s use of cello and viola has earned it the description, the “low lonesome sound”. Mandolin virtuoso John Reischman says:
Great Northern is an exciting new string band, made up of five innovative traditionalists. Great Northern has strong bluesy vocals, original instrumentals with tight arrangements, interesting cover material and a solid rhythmic feel, all the elements that make up a great band!
Jurgen Gothe, of CBC’s Disc Drive, described the band as “a string band of ace pickers and visionaries”. The band’s second CD “Low Lonesome” has won rave reviews; see http://www.greenmanreview.com/bluegrasstimesthree.html, and http://rambles.net/greatn_low.html. The musicians are: Doug Thordarson- 5-string viola and vocals; Craig McGregor - mandolin, guitar; Tim Eccles - guitar, mandolin, lead vocals; Iain MacIntyre – banjo; Brian Samuels - cello, vocals; and Paul Bergman – bass.
lineup
Brian Samuels musician/producer