Cumberland River roots have run deep in Harlan County Kentucky hills for generations, so it is no surprise fans can hear the heritage of traditional bluegrass in their music. It is also not surprising that the producers of the FX Network’s TV show, JUSTIFIED tapped their original music to be featured. So far five songs have been included in episodes. THE NEW YORK DAILY NEWS calls JUSTIFIED “the best dramatic series on TV” and was named as one of the TOP 10 TV SHOWS of 2010 by USA TODAY. Bluegrass music is alive and well on national TV! In 2012 the show will feature two music videos of the band inserted into two different episodes.
Cumberland River actually began with a promise and hand shake between two friends while driving to a Saturday night jam session in 2009. Early on, they decided they would have to write their own material to ensure their music would appeal to both the younger generation as well as the fans of more traditional, bluegrass music. As evidenced by recent reviews from media and radio, plus their growing number of loyal fans, they have certainly accomplished that goal.
Their debut album, ROCK ISLAND EXPRESS was released September 3, 2010 and a new album, THE LIFE WE LIVE is set for release on July 26, 2011 on Rural Rhythm Records which showcases the incredible songwriting talents of this hot young group with all five band members contributing to this impressive first national release. This new project was produced by STEVE GULLEY (Grasstowne). It includes a collection of heartfelt songs and haunting ballads written by the band and their family members taken from their life experiences and campfire stories from Harlan County, Kentucky.