Ida Clare - Louisville, KY

A captivating blend of Americana and Bluegrass that harkens back to the roots of American music while infusing it with a fresh, contemporary energy. This dynamic ensemble brings together seasoned musicians who share a passion for storytelling through song.

At the heart of Ida Clare's sound is Lea Cockrell, whose soulful voice weaves tales of love, loss, and the human experience with unparalleled emotion and depth. With a voice that effortlessly traverses the highs and lows of the musical landscape, Lea delivers the focal point of the band's sonic tapestry, drawing listeners in with heartfelt delivery.

Joining Lea on stage is banjo player Robin Thixton, whose roots in traditional Bluegrass shine through in every note she plays. With a history of performing with many standard bluegrass groups including the all-girl band Petticoat Junction, Robin brings a wealth of experience and expertise to Ida Clare, infusing their music with the authentic sound of Appalachia while adding her own unique flair and style.

On mandolin, and as the band's primary songwriter, Jim Wheatley brings a poetic sensibility to Ida Clare's music, drawing inspiration from the world around him to craft evocative and introspective songs that resonate with audiences on a profound level. Whether he's channeling the beauty of nature or reflecting on the complexities of the human condition, Jim's songwriting serves as the backbone of Ida Clare's repertoire, adding depth and nuance to their sound.

Rounding out the lineup is bass player and audio engineer Nick Stevens, whose diverse background in music brings a unique perspective to Ida Clare's sound. While his roots may lie outside of Bluegrass, Nick's impeccable taste, tone, and timing have made him an invaluable addition to the band, anchoring their music with his solid bass lines and expert engineering skills.

Together, Ida Clare is more than just a band – they're a musical journey through the heartland of America, where tradition meets innovation and the past merges seamlessly with the present. With an impressive repertoire of original songs that showcase their collective talent and creativity, Ida Clare is poised to make a lasting impression on the world of Americana and Bluegrass music, one heartfelt performance at a time.