The Grascals

Having veterans of the Grand Ole Opry in the lineup should be pedigree enough for a solid band. But the Grascals took things a step further in the first year of their existence when they released a critically acclaimed debut album. That release caught the attention of country-music legend Dolly Parton, who invited the band to not only open for her on a 2004 tour, but also to be her backing band. A quick listen to the Grascals' repertoire makes it obvious why such great fortune happened so early for these guys: They have chops and a true feel for what makes a great melody. Firmly grounded in a blend of bluegrass and old-time country, the Grascals don't aim for a throwback glory, but rather to write classic music for modern times.