Hand Hewn is a Northwest-Ohio string band originally having two members. Only one change in the line up in 7 years. Tom Kneisly, who played the Bouzouki and sang bass back up vovals, had to leave the group because of illness. Still with the group are:
* Jerry Eicher- Guitar, lead and backup singer
* Brenda Holdridge-Fiddle lead and backup singer
* Don Pawlicki-Bass, lead singer
* Neil Kelly- Banjo, backup singer
In addition, frequently, Jimmy Thompson may be seen playing mandolin with the group and singing a few classic bluegrass tunes. They concentrate on an old-tyme style, but mix in a great deal of bluegrass, old country, and folk. Three of the members supply many original tunes to compliment their repertoire or traditional fiddle and banjo tunes.
They may be seen at many re-enactments events, summer festivals, and historical events where they appear dressed in 'period' attire and play acoustically with or without a PA system, depending on the need for authenticity. They also play weddings, anniversaries, private events, dedications, churches, ect...
The songs they write mostly come from real experiences. "Campin In A One Bedroom House" was written by Jerry Eicher when he bought his first 100 year old house with only a pitcher hand pump in the kitchen for pluming and an out-house for a bathroom. His "Look At That Mustang" is about the wild mustangs out west that are running out of range to roam and are being slaughtered. Don Pawlicki's song "Natural Chain" is a tribute song to nearly extinct and extinct wildlife. The buffalo, wolf, and carrier pigeon.
His "Camp Creek"is about a place in west virginia that was used in the civil war where the battle line changed back and forth. Now it's a beautiful state campground where Don stops on his way to North Carolina. Brenda Holdridge's "Daughter of Robert E. Lee" is about her time as a little girl going back home in Kentucky to visit her grandparents. Well, maby mixed up with a little fantasy.
Her writing of "Glory Express" is Hand Hewns first gospel song. All other songs are borrowed from traditional music but they welcome works from current artists if appropriate for folk or old-tyme.
* Hand Hewn has two albums: 'A Good Folk Revival' (original tunes)
* 'Into The Light' (gospel)
A third is in the making. For bookings contact:
Jerry Eicher, 10131-N, Delta, Oh. 43515, PH (419) 923-8641.
| Guitar: Jerry Eicher |
Banjo: Neil Kelly |
| Mandolin: Jimmy Thompson |
Bass: Don Pawlicki |
Fiddle: Brenda Holdridge
Please Check their Website for Up to Date Appearances |
