Cornmeal March 29, 2009

"Feet First is a toe-tapping, hand-clapping, finger-snapping tour de force"-Illinois Entertainer. "A definite must for the bluegrass crowd, and big thumbs up for country and jam-band fans" -The Celebrity Cafe. Cornmeal continues to forge a path all their own, pushing the boundaries of bluegrass, Americana and folk for a whole new generation of music lovers. Steeped in the tradition of musical acts such as Old and in the Way, John Hartford, and New Grass Revival, Cornmeal has proven to be an influential presence in the world of roots music. Cornmeal has consistently evolved its sound and stage performance using bluegrass as a springboard for long improvisational work and songs ranging from country, rock and blues to jazz, funk and disco. With the release of their debut album "In The Kitchen" (2001 Livin' Live records), Cornmeal secured its place as one of the top bands in its genre. 2003’s “Tales from Magic Stone Mountain” (Livin’ Live records) garnered much critical attention and became a staple on College and AAA top 10 lists throughout the country. (Select Radio Station Listing and Press ) Last May, after almost three years, Cornmeal’s released their third album, “Feet First”. By far their best effort to date, Feet First is proof positive that Cornmeal’s tenure on the road has brought on an honest and mature sound. Produced by guitarist Kris Nowak and bassist Chris Gangi, "Feet First" features a strong confidence in songwriting, musicianship and the ability of this band to stylistically ride the fence and bring it back home without missing a step. Spending over half the year on the road, the Chicago-based group has gained valuable exposure and attracted a faithful following from Colorado to the Carolinas. While playing a blend of high profile venues, jam-band and bluegrass festivals to thousands throughout the region, the band has shared the stage with such highly acclaimed national acts as THE DAVID GRISMAN QUINTET, JOHN HARTFORD, THE DEL McCOURY BAND, LITTLE FEAT, LEFTOVER SALMON, TONY RICE, YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING BAND, DARK STAR ORCHESTRA, moe, SAM BUSH and UMPHREY'S McGEE. In addition, Cornmeal has employed a vigorous college, AAA and Internet radio campaign, including their recent addition to the Home Grown Music Network, helping to broaden their reach to listeners from coast to coast. Feet First has employed a staple position on the Jambands.com top 20 radio list since August 2006. Heavily influenced by American roots and folk music, Cornmeal was started as a side project over seven years ago only to watch it grow into a Chicago institution. Known for their vast musical repertoire, lightning fast tempos, and impeccable harmonies, the five-piece acoustic-electric band prides itself on the energy it puts forth each night creating an unrivalled live performance that continues to shape itself into a truly unique experience.

Official Website: http://hodishalfnote.com