The vibrant acoustic music scene is poised for an electrifying performance as the acclaimed Grammy-nominated duo, Rob Ickes and Trey Hensley, prepare to bring their heralded “acoustic firestorm” to the Opera House in Boothbay Harbor on Thursday, August 7. Renowned globally for their powerhouse sound and exceptional musicianship, their upcoming concert promises an unforgettable evening of diverse musicality.
Rob Ickes stands as a towering figure in the acoustic music world, boasting an unparalleled 15 International Bluegrass Music Association Dobro Player of the Year awards. As a founding member of the bluegrass supergroup Blue Highway and a highly sought-after Dobro master, his instrument has graced recordings and concerts for legendary artists including Earl Scruggs, Merle Haggard, Alison Krauss, and Tony Rice, solidifying his status as one of the most decorated musicians in IBMA history.
Complementing Ickes’ mastery is Trey Hensley, a Tennessee-born guitar prodigy whose talent earned him the moniker “Nashville’s hottest young player” from Acoustic Guitar magazine. Hensley made his Grand Ole Opry debut at the tender age of 11, invited by none other than Marty Stuart alongside Earl Scruggs. His impressive collaborations extend to iconic figures like Johnny Cash, Peter Frampton, and Old Crow Medicine Show, further showcasing his prodigious skill.
Together, the Grammy Nominated Duo crafts a signature sound that defies traditional genre constraints. Their performances are celebrated for white-hot picking, world-class musicianship, and soulful, stone-country vocals. They seamlessly meld elements of bluegrass, country, blues, rock, jamgrass, and various string band music styles, creating a unique and compelling Acoustic Music experience that resonates with a broad audience.
Critics have universally lauded the dynamic pairing of Rob Ickes and Trey Hensley. NPR has described them as “two musical phenoms,” while Vintage Guitar raved about their “acoustic firestorm” that is “changing the rules” of the genre. Acoustic Guitar observed their sound as “steel-string Bluegrass Music with all the intensity of rock ‘n’ roll,” and No Depression recognized them as “two of the finest musicians playing today.”
Their discography is equally impressive, with all three of their albums receiving widespread critical acclaim. Their debut, “Before The Sun Goes Down,” garnered a prestigious Grammy nomination, immediately establishing their formidable presence in the industry. Their current release, “World Full of Blues,” further showcases their collaborative spirit, featuring contributions from esteemed artists like Vince Gill and Taj Mahal. Notably, they teamed with guitar master Tommy Emmanuel for the critically acclaimed “Tommy Emmanuel – Accomplice Series Vol. I,” performing together on the Grand Ole Opry.
For those eager to witness this extraordinary Acoustic Firestorm live, Boothbay Harbor Concert tickets are available. Advance tickets are priced at $30 and can be purchased exclusively from the box office at 86 Townsend Ave., Boothbay Harbor, or by calling 633-5159. Regular tickets, priced at $35, will be available online and at the door on the day of the show. Doors open for seating at 7 p.m., with the concert commencing at 7:30 p.m.
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