top of page

ABOUT US

The Leadfoot Band branches out in all directions, ncorporating their love of bluegrass with their early urban influences of rock , funk and everything in between, the evolution of the band is hard to place. Fans have said Leadfoot is just hard driving bluegrass, some say they are rock infused jamgrass, or even a bastard child of Bill Monroe meets Metallica. The online music site JamGrass.net even says The Leadfoot Band is "A mix between Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros and Greensky Bluegrass."

Comprised of mandolinist Steve Haberichter, guitarist Mike Vanier, Garrett 'Geebs' Degnan on bass, drummer/ percussionist Mike Holtz, Andy Ohlrich on fiddle, and the new addition of Pete Smith on banjo in 2017, these seasoned musicians create a robust musical delicacy that tantalizes the senses and gets the feet moving. It is a smokin' blend of styles suitable for any palette: funky, to pocket groove, to two-steppin', to straight bluegrass/ newgrass, easy listening to acoustic rock fusion. Summed up perfectly by musician Jaik Willis: The Leadfoot Band is "Chicago's freshest post-bluegrass served up spicy- just how you like it- with tasty grooves and lightning-fast delivery."

The Leadfoot Band released their self-titled album "The Leadfoot Band" in 2014 getting national acclaim and voted a Top Album of the Year by Jamgrass.net. Along with guest musician Pat Sansone of Wilco on keys, the album features all original songs highlighting the diverse songwriting of the band. They are in the works on a new album in 2018. 

They continue to win new fans over at every show and festival with their dynamic and impressive performances. They have shared the stage with likes of Sam Bush, Railroad Earth, Hot Tuna, Bill Nershi, Jeff Austin, Split Lip Rayfield, Sarah Watkins, Darol Anger, The Iguanas, The Radiators, Vince Herman and Drew Emmitt from Leftover Salmon and many more.

"Musical styles come and go, but occasionally the good ones come back sounding fresh and new. Bluegrass is just one of those genres that are sprouting through the cracks of our concrete jungle and it feels great! In this proud new high energy progressive blend, there is an excitability that is extremely refreshing. Leading the pack in (Chicago) is Leadfoot." (Lumino Magazine)-

bottom of page