Biography
The Emma Gibbs Band came together in 1996, initially consisting of Andrew LeVasseur on drums, Jeff Remsburg on bass, and Drew Cannon on lead guitar. While enrolled at the University of North Carolina, the three musicians expanded their lineup with Brett Buckner on harmonica and Richard Upchurch on rhythm guitar. Rehearsals took place at Remsburg’s grandmother’s house, where the group absorbed her accounts of performing as a blues singer. After playing the university circuit, they issued their self-titled debut album in 1997 and brought in Will Straughn as mandolin player that same year. Shows at the Jomeokee Festival alongside String Cheese Incident and at the 1998 HORDE Festival with Ben Harper helped the Emma Gibbs Band cultivate a devoted audience through its fusion of country, roots, folk, and bluegrass. Seven Even followed in 1999. George Wallis replaced LeVassuer on drums in August 2000, prompting a return to John Keane Studios; Out In the Country appeared the next year. The band has opened for James Taylor and Derek Trucks Band and draws comparisons to Son Volt and Strangefolk. David Blackmon has also joined the Emma Gibbs Band on tour.
Albums