The Giving Tree Band

Although the Giving Tree Band originated in Yorkville, IL—a modest Midwestern community situated roughly 40 miles west of Chicago—the group draws inspiration from bluegrass, folk, Americana, and additional southern-rooted styles. In 2004, siblings Todd and Eric Fink formed the ensemble after collaborating in multiple jam bands. Seeking a “timeless” sound reminiscent of earlier periods, the brothers avoided electric guitars in favor of acoustic instruments, resulting in a rustic aesthetic that incorporated guitar, banjo, upright bass, violin, mandolin, dobro, dulcimer, and ukulele. The lineup eventually grew to eight musicians, with most relocating to the Fink residence to undertake various recording endeavors. Their self-produced debut, the 33-track Unified Folk Theory, arrived in 2007, followed by Great Possessions two years afterward.