Lovers Leap

Standing on the precipice of a new and exciting venture, the band members of Lovers Leap decided to jump. Although it was more of a soaring than a falling when they first played together under the shadow of the beautiful rock outcrop in Hot Springs, NC, for which their name was inspired. At the heart of Lovers Leap is a lovely balance of lush harmonies and provocative solos, intwined in songs that span from old mountain murder ballads to original tunes, that are set to worldly rhythms and stratocaster daydreams. As a show unfolds and boundaries dissolve, the nucleus of a performance is steadfast, tugging on the listeners’ heart strings, while also satiating one’s desires of instrumental virtuosity.

Independently, Shelby Means (bass, guitar, vocals ), Mary Lucey (banjo, bass, vocals ), Joel Timmons (guitar, drums, vocals) and Billy Cardine (dobro, vocals), have each made an impact on the evolving Americana music scene. Means began singing and playing upright bass as a young’un in a family band. These talents lead her to a GRAMMY nomination with band, Della Mae where she shared the stage with folks such as Willie Nelson, and the Avett Brothers,. Lucey, a founding member of The Biscuit Burners, helped propel the band to international attention with her powerful singing, bass playing and songwriting. She also played with Uncle Earl alongside John Paul Jones for their album release tour. Timmons, as a member of Sol Driven Train has played alongside Bruce Hornsby, Levon Helm and Michael Franti, demonstrating his sonic playfulness, danceable rhythms and Americana pop leanings. Cardine, a slide guitar pioneer, founding member of The Biscuit Burners and current member of Acoustic Syndicate, Rapidgrass and North of Too Far Downs has made a name through his distinct voice on all things slide. He has performed with Edgar Meyer at Carnegie Hall and collaborated with greats such as Debashish Bhattacharya and Jerry Douglas.

Collectively the bandmates have presented their sound from the Kennedy Center to Bonnaroo, Merlefest to Telluride, Europe and China to Israel and India. They each have taught workshops throughout the country and internationally on their respective instruments.