Local Exchange is a 5-piece bluegrass band that hails from the heart of Virginia. The band organized some eight years ago. They play mainly in Virginia and the Carolinas but have ventured to Florida and parts of Kentucky and Tennessee. Performing “good bluegrass music” is at the core of the band’s mission statement.

Local Exchange is… Michelle Nixon, one of the group’s lead and harmony vocalists and a writer of original music for the band; Vernon Hughes, another lead and harmony vocalist as well as the mandolin player; Clyde Bailey, the baritone singer and the banjo, guitar, and on occasion, mandolin player; Mike Sharp, the band’s rhythm and resonator guitarist; and George Thomas who plays the acoustic bass and sings on selected songs.

The band has two previous CD releases, a self-titled debut (1998) – which earned a high review in Bluegrass Unlimited magazine – and Steppin’ Out (1999). Because He Lives is the group’s third release and their first all-gospel outing.

In his notes to the recording, Virginia-based DJ and festival promoter Sonny Ludlam has high praise for this “soul-stirring” gospel CD. He notes that the recording is “chock full of great gospel songs, from fast-paced tunes featuring Clyde’s banjo to slower works, providing a combination of new, original songs and old camp-meeting favorites.” He also advises, “…be sure to listen closely to Local Exchange’s a cappella version of ‘Pearly Gates.’ It’s my favorite. It’ll raise the hair on the back of your neck!”