THE DEEP ELLUM BIG FOLKIN FESTIVAL 4 - Day 1 - April 17 2015

Penny and Sparrow are Andy Baxter and Kyle Jahnke, from the heart of Texas. Previously roommates, the duo makes music influenced by The Swell Season, Bon Iver, Mumford and Sons, and others. They also love musicals.

Described alternately as "Hee-Haw on mescaline" and "CBGB-meets-Grand Ole Opry," The Defibulators are a longstanding staple of the Brooklyn country music scene.

The band is currently touring on the heels of their latest release Debt'll Get'em, co-produced with Brian Bender (Langhorne Slim, Jose James). The album is striking, au courant take on classic country, channeling the frenetic energy of their legendary live shows into tight, punchy hooks and foot-stomping sing-alongs.

The band's boundless energy and infectious sense of joy onstage earned them a nod as one of Brooklyn's best emerging bands in Vice Magazine, and a devoted following in a city not known for its love of country. "It's most fun to play for people who don't think they like country music," says singer Erin Bru. Guitarist/singer/songwriter Bug Jennings agrees, adding, "There's something about the fast-paced, frantic, neurotic energy of New York that makes our style work."

Call it what you will, Americana, cowpunk, indie honky-tonk, or Brooklyn country, the proof is in the listening. There is an energy that percolates through out Debt'll Get 'Em. The reverence for traditional country forms combined with an irreverent rock and roll attitude is a winning combination. The songwriting and musicianship is first rate, and the Erin and Bug harmonies are sublime.