Big Cricket String Band brings irreverent Old Time Appalachian traditional music to the stage. A raucus, rollicking 5-piece String Band from Baltimore, MD, Big Cricket leads with an upfront, double-fiddle sound and a driving rhythm section that knows no rules. High energy is a hallmark of this young dance band that is quickly taking over the scene in the Mid-Atlantic.
Big Cricket String Band emerged from the post-Pandemic ashes in Baltimore, MD, quickly gaining members and steam while performing at local dances and festivals. Now the complete five-piece has assembled to bring Big Cricket Energy to audiences everywhere. Big Cricket brings an unconventional approach to String Band music that is enjoyed by everyone yet grounded in tradition.
The band toes the line between harmony and tension, tradition and innovation — exploring harmonic and rhythmic space while holding on to the foundation of traditional instrumentation and technique.
Meghan Mette (fiddle, flatfooting) and Julius Bjornson (fiddle) twin melody and counter-melody over a backbone provided by Joshua Guy’s driving Banjo, and Kai Knorr’s thumping bass. William Brauneis brings versatility and depth to the group with his rhythm and unique styling (guitar, fiddle) .
They have honed their craft between listening sets, festival appearances, and frequent Square Dance performances across the region. As part of the vibrant Old Time scene in Baltimore, Big Cricket can be found frequently hosting local jams and events when not on the road performing.