Clearspring Bluegrass

Matthew Geiger founded Clearspring Bluegrass with life-long friends Paul Bradshaw and John Leatherman in 2002 — over the years, other musicians and friends have joined Matthew and John to support their dedication to performing energetic hard-driving traditional bluegrass. In 2007, Gary Palmer and Roger Palmer joined and Clearspring began playing out, expanding their repertoire, and honing their style and tight vocals. In 2011, Matthew and John met Eric Knowles and Jason Hannan at a jam held at Boe’s Strings in Frederick, MD. Soon thereafter, the four began playing out regularly in the area, including a long-standing night at Beans in the Belfry. Two albums capture their covers and original songs: Hard Times Comin’ — released in January 2012 Stars in the City — released in April 2013 In early 2015, dobro player Mark Baker joined to bring a new instrument and voice to the Clearspring sound. Following their exceptional performance at the Berryville Gas and Steam Engine Show in July 2015, John stepped away to focus on his family: he and his wife are expecting their first child in late 2015. Matthew, Eric, Jason, and Mark continued to play out at local venues including Milkhouse Brewery at Stillpoint Farm and Barley and Hops Grill and Microbrewery. In November 2015, Jason and Mark left to pursue modern / contemporary music interests. Eric and Matthew are excited to focus on their mutual love of old-time and traditional bluegrass with some “twists” thrown in — currently they play at Beans in the Belfry on the second Thursday from 7pm to 9pm; Robbie Benzing and other friends drop by to pick and sing. Hard-driving traditional bluegrass with a fresh approach and a focus on vocal harmonies; based in Frederick, MD area.