The New North String Band workin’ them strings.

Chippewa Valley bluegrass fans have a chance to kick up their heels at the area’s first big gospel bluegrass show. The event kicks off a series of bluegrass and country shows held at Grandpa Lloyd’s Horse Barn just east of Menomonie and features the area’s fine gospel group King’s Countrymen and one of the region’s hottest new acts in bluegrass, Eau Claire’s own New North String Band. The venue is a charming rural “country theater” featuring a stage, table seating, church basement style food area, and lots of free parking. The host, Grandpa Lloyd, has opened up his horse barn to music fans on the first Saturday of each month since he built the barn in 2007. The facility is sparkling clean, smoke free, and very “musician friendly.” Every seat offers a great view of the stage in this intimate setting and the jam sessions offered after the show allow for everyone who picks a tune or two to get into the act. “We want to offer a bluegrass event that is smoke and alcohol free – one the entire family can enjoy,” says Lloyd. King’s Countrymen leads off, followed by the critically acclaimed New North String Band, both of which have a rich talent pool. Gospel bluegrass newcomers and fans are guaranteed an enjoyable evening of hot licks, three part harmonies, and country humor. Don’t forget to bring your instrument!

Grandpa Lloyd’s Gospel Bluegrass Show • Saturday, April 24 • Grandpa Lloyd’s Horse Barn, N3287 730th St., Elk Mound • 5pm • $8 general, kids 12 and under FREE • all ages •