Widely regarded as one of the most innovative and genre-bending artists of his craft, Danny Barnes' musical interests are both varied and adventurous, and he incorporates that versatility into a progressive approach to an instrument that is musically polarizing and steeped in tradition. Although he demonstrates an appreciation for the history of the bluegrass, country, and folk music from which the banjo's reputation was born, his inventive take is what truly separates him from his contemporaries…using the banjo as his ‘weapon of choice’ to play non-traditional music like rock, fusion, and jazz with electronic percussion and loop elements

“Danny Barnes’ Pizza Box is my favorite new music, my favorite rock record, and my favorite country record…..the music is smart and soulful and lyrics are profound. It is heaven and earth.  It is Americana, from back porch to the pulpit, shattered dreams on angels wings.”  -DAVE MATTHEWS

“By staying on the cusp between traditional and innovative, relaxed and aggressive, heartfelt and humorous, simple and sophisticated…..in the case of Danny Barnes one senses the urgency that comes acknowledging what is universal around that cuspy point.”  - MIKE GORDON

“I was knocked out when I first heard him play and continue to be.  Danny is wide open, unafraid, hungry for new ideas, and has a way of processing it all so that whatever comes in comes out all his own.  The line between where he’s been and where he’s going is unbroken. The roots are strong. He lives the music.” -  BILL FRISELL

“Danny Barnes is the great American un-sung hero.  Whether playing guitar, banjo or singing – his talent is limitless. When you watch him play it seems impossible the things he does – but when you hear it back as a listener it all makes sense.”  - SAM BUSH

Be sure to check Danny Barnes out at one of this year's Valley Stage Preview Shows:
August 12 - Big Picture Café/Theater - $15 - 8:00 p.m.

Visit Danny’s website, but don’t forget to come back here by closing the window or tab that opens.