Biography
Originating from the Province of St. Joseph, the northeastern branch of the Order of Preachers, the Hillbilly Thomists comprise a ten-piece traditional folk and bluegrass ensemble whose members are all Dominican Friars. Fathers Austin Litke on mandolin, guitar, and vocals and Thomas Joseph White on banjo, dulcimer, and vocals established the group, which draws its name from a phrase by American writer Flannery O'Connor. Like the friars themselves, O'Connor maintained a strong regard for the thirteenth-century theologian Saint Thomas Aquinas. What started as a lighthearted outlet for Fr. Litke and Fr. White performing traditional Irish tunes expanded when younger brothers in the order expressed interest, prompting a shift toward American folk styles highlighted on the Coen Brothers' O Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack. The musicians adapted hymns and chose pieces filled with scriptural and spiritual themes. In 2017 they captured their developing repertoire on their self-titled debut album, which featured the traditional numbers "Poor Wayfaring Stranger" and "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms." The recording achieved unexpected commercial traction by entering the Top Ten of Billboard's Bluegrass chart.
Albums
Singles
