No Depression Winter 2016: Bluegrass Beyond

In the realm of American roots music, bluegrass is one of the forms with the most contemporary roots. Yet its players and fans carry such a fierce allegiance to it that one of their most frequent debates is whether bluegrass should adhere strictly to tradition or pull it forward. “Bluegrass Beyond” dives into both sides of the argument, exploring the traditions and innovations that have characterized bluegrass music from the beginning. Long features shed light on the modern history of the form through its band leaders, rhythm sections, and the women who have helped move the genre forward for decades. Some of bluegrass’s biggest innovators discuss the future of the genre, even as its sidemen honor its strongest traditions.