The Ragbirds
Led by dynamic, energetic front woman and multi-instrumentalist Erin Zindle, The Ragbirds utilize an arsenal of instruments from around the world. The Ragbirds are a fusion of folk rock and pop hooks over danceable world rhythms stirred with a Celtic fiddler's bow.
Surrounding Zindle's earthy-sweet voice is the whirlwind of guitarist T.J. Zindle and dynamic bassist Brian Crist, spinning over the world-beat grooves of drummer Loren Kranz and percussionist Randall Moore. Zindle skillfully switches between violin, mandolin, banjo, accordion, and percussion, all while dancing around the stage, drawing the awe of audiences across the country.
The Ragbirds albums have received local and national praise, hailed "Highly impressive!" by USA Today and touted as "Astounding international eclecticism" by Reveal Arts. The Ragbirds were formed in 2005 with the release of "Yes Nearby." 2007's world-travel themed "Wanderlove" was Homegrown Music Network's #1 selling album in the fall of 2008. The 2009 international release of "Finally Almost Ready" saw the band invade Japan with the single "Book of Matches" reaching #1 on the charts in Osaka. In 2010 The Ragbirds reached yet another milestone in their young careers when they independently marketed and sold their 10,000th album.
The Ragbirds have performed in over 40 states to a tune of 150+ shows a year. Crisscrossing the nation in their converted diesel bus that runs on recycled waste vegetable oil, these festival favorites have performed at Rothbury, 10,000 Lakes, Summer Camp, Ann Arbor Folk Festival, Hookahville, and more, and have shared the stage with Rusted Root, Railroad Earth, Toubab Krewe, Hot Buttered Rum, The Duhks, and many others.