Special Consensus has reached a highpoint in its 35 year career with the release of SCRATCH GRAVEL ROAD. Bandleader/banjoist Greg Cahill’s current line-up: Rick Faris (mandolin and vocals), David Thomas (bass and vocals) and newest member Dustin Benson (guitar and vocals) is one of the most exciting in bluegrass and, together with producer Alison Brown, they have recorded a 12 song set that is certain to be one of the most airplay friendly bluegrass releases of 2012. Stand-out tracks include “Monroe” (featuring guest vocals from former members Josh Williams and Chris Jones), a first recording of the Harley Allen original “Good Problem to Have” and a dynamic reworking of the Golden Gate Quartet’s classic gospel song “On My Way To The Kingdom Land.”

Special Consensus was founded in 1975 by banjoist Greg Cahill as a showcase for his urban traditionalist take on bluegrass which encompasses elements of Chicago blues, swing, newgrass, and country music. Over the intervening 35 years, the group has seen a myriad of personnel changes and has been the breeding ground for some of the best young stars in bluegrass today; Josh Williams, Chris Jones and Robbie Fulks are just a few names in a long list of former members who have gone on to build solo careers. Special Consensus maintains a busy year round touring schedule, reaching an eclectic demographic through appearances at festivals, listening rooms, bluegrass in the schools programs and symphony appearances.

“Thirty-five years in bluegrass—on the road, recording, teaching, volunteering—Greg Cahill is the Cal Ripken Jr. of bluegrass. This iron man is still going!” —Bluegrass Unlimited

“One of the longest-running and best-respected outfits in bluegrass history.” —Chicago Reader