The bluegrass band East Virginia takes its name, rather appropriately, from the region of the country where they have been headquartered since 1969; the Norfolk area of Virginia is home-base. The band is comprised of five stellar instrumentalists and vocalists: co-founder and dobro player Joe McDonough, brother Art McDonough on bass, David Ratcliff on guitar and lead vocals (he’s a former member of the Bluegrass Cardinals and Jimmy Martin’s Sunny Mountain Boys), Ron Barnes on banjo and Harold “Smitty” Smith on mandolin make up the current edition of the band.

During the 1970s and early ‘80s the group enjoyed a hectic touring schedule and played many of the more popular east coast bluegrass festivals. The release of several well-received self-produced albums led to a successful association with Rounder Records that produced two fine LPs worth of their distinctive brand of traditional bluegrass. With their touring and recording activities, they developed a sizeable fan base. However, career and family obligations necessitated a time-out for East Virginia. Now, 15 years later, the band is reactivated and is picking up right where they left off.

A re-energized edition of East Virginia is now back on the circuit. Part of their re-entry is their latest CD release entitled “Back Home In East Virginia.” This new recording adheres strongly to the high standards that the group set for themselves many years ago. Bluegrass with a traditional bent, the accent is on smooth and soulful lead and harmony singing, expert instrumental work and an excellent assortment of quality material. Most impressive is the fact that 8 of the 12 tunes were written by the various band members. The remaining tracks pay homage to past bluegrass triumphs by legendary groups such as Reno & Smiley, Jim & Jesse and Flatt & Scruggs. Joining East Virginia as a special guest on this recording is ace fiddler Rickie Simpkins.