The Barn Swallows is a country-folk group from Phoenixville and Skippack, in the wooded suburbs between Philadelphia and Reading. Their tuneful sound is based squarely in the country, folk, and bluegrass traditions, while simultaneously presenting a quirky approach to their originals and unusual covers that is modern and unique. They have been received well by audiences ranging from small listening rooms to large festivals, and many bars, coffehouses, private parties, wineries, and clubs in between.
Sandy Pluta (vocals, dobro, guitar, and mandolin) and Matthew Gordon (vocals, guitar, harmonica and mandolin) built up a loyal following as two-thirds of the popular trio Blue Moon, playing together for over a decade. They formed the Barn Swallows in October 2006 to focus more on their songwriting, harmonies, and original works. In mid-2009, Ted Adelberger (bass and vocals) from the Norristown bluegrass band "Blackjack", joined the duo.
The soaring country-blues slide of Sandy's dobro, along with her haunting country voice, bring to mind shades of Hazel Dickens and Iris Dement, and lend an authenticity to the Barn Swallows' rootsy approach to the music. Hailing from Western PA in the foothills of the Appalachia Mountains, Sandy's sound is solidly grounded in the gritty red clay of Appalachia, yet the honky-tonks of Tennessee, and the windy skies of Texas, resonate as well. Her deeply personal songs explore the disappointments and yearnings of relationships in a simple, direct manner. Sandy is also quite active with Musicians on Call, bringing her music to cheer children and adults in Philadelpia hospitals.
Matthew's guitar work and smooth vocal harmonies perfectly complement Sandy's sometimes fragile, emotional sound, as well as her more gutsy tunes, providing dynamics and strength to the music in carefully measured doses. Matthew takes the vocal lead on some songs, particularly on his originals, many of which involve tales of engaging characters and adventures, and explorations of the variety of feelings captured in a single moment of time.
Ted's bass playing has added fullness and rhythmic drive to the band. His third-part harmonies strike a chord in the listener's ear. He also adds his own strong, distinctive lead vocals to bluegrass traditionals.
Together, their music is soothing and
spacious, drawing the listener in with bright and intriguing dobro and
guitar work, and lyrics that are deceptively simple, yet profoundly
poetic. They are currently working on their debut CD which they are
targeting for a May 2010 release date. They would love to play for you
at your next event- contact them here.
