Make Music Kansas City MO

Hardscrabble

The Heartland’s newest string band delivers traditional bluegrass with a bit of Americana. They blend acoustic instruments and vocal harmonies in dynamic arrangements that resonate with diverse audiences. Hardscrabble features Loretta Rivard on upright bass, Nick Rivard on banjo, Charlie Morgan on mandolin and David Mathews on guitar. The members have a long history with the Kansas City music scene and have played in a wide variety of Americana bands throughout the years. Hardscrabble honors bluegrass legends such as The Carter Family, Bill Monroe, and Flatt & Scruggs performing in traditional acoustic style. Their songs draw deeply from the Appalachian coal mine country blended with the California sound of the 1960’s. The music tells stories of backcountry rural life, love, loss, and history, delivered with rich harmonies and improvisational instrumental solos. They are certain to uplift your spirits and leave you wanting more.