Big Richard returns to the TCA
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN FOUR
esteemed career musicians come together, rather impromptu, to play an outdoor festival? Not only was there an instant camaraderie off the stage, but there was also a world-class consolidation on the stage. That fateful concert date quickly led to the formation of Big Richard, a band of four females who, along with their world-class talent, bring a healthy dose of playful irreverence and decidedly muliebrous BDE to their popular and often sold-out shows (if you aren’t familiar with the acronym, Google BDE).
Referring to themselves as a “neoacoustic supergroup,” Big Richard features Bonnie Simms on mandolin and guitar, Emma Rose on upright bass and guitar, Eve Panning on fiddle and Joy Adams on cello. The foursome has released three singles and a ‘Live from Telluride’ LP, and will be returning to the TCA this weekend after a successful debut performance last year.
Bonnie Simms, who has also played in Taos alongside her musician husband, said of Big Richard’s return to Taos, “we have been writing as a group and adding more original songs to our set. Folks can expect some fresh material and fun surprises at this show.
We’re so excited to take these new songs on the road for the first time on this January run!” Taos Lifestyle will once again be presenting Big Richard at the TCA for their repeat performance — which will no doubt include new music since the band is working on a new record. “It’s hard to believe this group has only been playing together since 2021,” commented Mary Domito, owner of Taos Lifestyle.
“Their sound comes together so well, it’s as if they’ve been together for decades. Their musical talent and humor on stage is an incredible combination.” Big Richard’s sound is, indeed, big and the group is unafraid to blur the lines of music genres.
Their repertoire includes both traditional and modern bluegrass, classical, country, pop and some old-time goodies delivered with a combination of confidence and strong feminine nuance.
Perhaps it’s that nuance that Big Richard is increasingly known and respected for, and not just for their name. The group refreshingly reinvents beloved traditional tunes with a flair of mixing styles seamlessly in one song. That subtle yet palpable nuance, also comes across on stage.
The band clearly enjoys the music they are making and their dialogue between songs often renders the audience laughing and clapping at the between-the-songs commentary. “Their edgy and playful banter blends together on stage and draws the audience in,” added Domito.
The audience will also have the opportunity to hear Zephaniah Stringfield, winner of the 2021 New Mexico Music Awards in Bluegrass for his song “Logan Harvey.” Stringfield (yes, that is his birth name) has recently released a new album, “Ipse Dixit,” which was recorded at Moonflower Sounds in Taos.