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The Band

When asked about how he discovered bluegrass music, a young Chris Silver used to joke, “I learned it through growing up in the hills of Shoreview Minnesota. “  In reality, Chris discovered bluegrass through attending a Doc Watson performance at the Whole Coffeehouse (University of Minnesota) in 1977. From that point on, Chris spent decades studying, and later mastering the traditional sounds of bluegrass.  Although he started on guitar, Chris went on to learn the mandolin and fiddle which he now plays in all of his shows. Chris has long been recognized as one of the most innovative and tasteful acoustic players in the region. He spent years touring with the acclaimed Stoney Lonesome band and singer songwriter Kate MacKenzie. 

 

A few years later, Chris formed his own band with some of the area’s most experienced and polished pickers. Nearly 40 years after attending that Doc Watson concert, Chris has recorded multiple albums and has performed across the globe. His band, The Good Intentions, is a product of his love for the first generation of bluegrass. The group’s live performances feature songs from the  bluegrass masters as well as material penned by Silver.  The arrangements are powerful and while their music is informed by the likes of Bill Monroe and the Stanley Brothers, it includes the fresh elements of blues, swing, and world music. The overall success that the group has enjoyed is based on the complementary picking and singing skills of talented players that have a deep reverence for the tradition.

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Along with Chris, members of the Good Intentions include Heath Loy (from Rochester, MN) - Banjo,  J D. Shaffer - Bass, and Mike Cramer - Guitar.  

 

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