Big Fish Ensemble

Having previously shared duties in the Indigo Girls' touring ensemble, drummer Michael Lorant and violinist Sheila Doyle linked up in 1992 with vocalist/guitarist Paul Schwartz and bassist Leigh Finlayson, thereby launching Big Fish Ensemble. The Atlanta-based quartet's readiness to move among bluegrass, folk, and pop prompted observers to liken them to other idiosyncratic Southern pop outfits such as Poi Dog Pondering. Long Play Records issued the band's debut, Field Trip, in 1992. I Hate Parties followed in 1994, and Lucky appeared the next year. Michael Lorant, who helmed the third album, also contributed to the Jesus Christ Superstar: A Resurrection project by producing its various-artists benefit compilation, whose proceeds supported gun-control charities. In spring 2000 the group reassembled to release The State Bird of Big Fish Ensemble.