The Thompson Brothers

Two weeks ago, on the strength of a glance at the band website, the BIB announced: 'The Low Country Boys, Ireland's only bluegrass gospel band, based in the Ards Peninsula, Co. Down, are back in action after suspending full-band operations during 2008...'

Thanks to Mark Thompson for the news that he and his brother Graeme Thompson have been playing since late 2008 as the Thompson Brothers in traditional close-harmony brother duet style with mandolin and guitar. Their blog gives their performance schedule, photos, videos, and other news, with a solid historical outline of the 'brother duet' style and a list of the best brother duets (with links). The latest post lists hymns and songs recently added to their repertoire. An album's worth of free downloads is scheduled for release this spring, with packaged CDs available at cost price.

Gibson Young and Ivan McFerran continue to operate as the Low Country Boys with banjo, guitar, and electric bass.