I love the name of the band North of Nashville that is based quite a bit north of Nashville in Portland, Maine. I also love the band!

North of Nashville

Last Friday night, we were treated to a wonderful show by this band at an Extended Play Session for Alternate Root TV.

North of Nashville

Andrew Martelle and Jay Basiner comprise this outlaw country duo, with Andrew playing fiddle and Jay playing just about everything else! On this night, he played guitar, harmonica and drums as well as singing most of the lead vocals.

Jay Basiner

Andrew Martelle

Considering there were only two musicians on stage, there was a lot of sound emanating from the stage.

Jay

They were clearly relaxed as they came to the stage, but they were also very comfortable with the idea of playing in a studio where they could see the audience and interact with us as they performed. Their jaunty repartee was fun to participate it as they joked with us.

Andrew

Jay does most of the songwriting for the band, according to Andrew, but they collaborate on all songs. Unfortunately, I do not recall the titles of the songs they played this night but I have a feeling they can be found on their debut self-titled studio release.

Jay

Andrew and Jay are quite talented, and play outlaw country music that is true to its roots. It is genuine and smacks of truth.

Andrew

Jay

I am planning to see them again on October 11th at the Middle East Upstairs where they are performing with some very special guests. You might want to do the same.

Jay

Andrew

I wonder what North of Nashville called themselves when they were based in Nashville…