Cumberland River’s roots have run deep in Harlan County Kentucky hills for generations, so it is no surprise fans can hear the heritage of traditional bluegrass in their music. Their new album, THE LIVE WE LIVE released in July 2011 on Rural Rhythm Records showcases the incredible songwriting talents of this hot young group with all five band members contributing to this impressive first national release.

The band actually began with a promise and hand shake between two friends while driving to a Saturday night jam session in 2009. Early on, they decided they would have to write their own material to ensure their music would appeal to both the younger generation as well as the fans of more traditional, bluegrass music. As evidenced by recent reviews from media and radio, plus their growing number of loyal fans, they have certainly accomplished that goal.

In July 29, 2010, Cumberland River was invited to perform for the writers and producers of the FX Network’s TV show, JUSTIFIED while they were in Harlan gathering information for their upcoming season. With only 24 hours notice, the band got together and wrote a song, “Justified” as a gift to the show. They received a standing ovation from the writers and producers, including Graham Yost, the multi-award winning writer and producer. Cumberland River added the song to their debut album, ROCK ISLAND EXPRESS released September 3, 2010 and a newly cut version appears as a bonus track on their new album.

TV viewer’s got a taste of Cumberland River’s music in the opening scene of the March 2, 2011 JUSTIFIED episode, “For Blood or Money,” when they heard the band performing an instrumental version of their original song “Justified” during the opening scene. On the April 6, 2011 episode, viewers got a full dose when fans could hear the band performing five more of their songs during the first 30 minutes. During that time frame, the show was averaging 3.9 million total viewers on the first run of Season Two with a multi-run weekly average of 7.2 million total viewers and gaining fans every week. Bluegrass music is alive and well on national TV!

THE LIFE WE LIVE was produced by acclaimed singer, songwriter and Grasstowne band member, STEVE GULLEY. Cumberland River’s members, Dustin Middleton, James, Dean, Joey Joes, Jamie Stewart, and Andy Buckner welcomed special guests, Dale Ann Bradley and Justin Moses on the new album. This impressive new project is a fine collection of original music of heart felt songs and haunting ballads written by Cumberland River and taken from their life experiences and campfire stories from Harlan County, Kentucky.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT WWW.CUMBERLAND-RIVER.COM