Biography

Forming in Portland, Oregon in 2002, the trio of Michael Berly (guitar, banjo, ukulele), Matty V Hartless (bass) and Tim Connell (mandolin, piano, tin whistle, melodica) have enjoyed the talents and friendship of numerous musicians that have been and remain a part of the greater "Yeller Family" over the years. They have recently pared down to their original lineup and now add Simon Lucas (drums, percussion).

This quartet combines their various influences to create an entertaining and endearing form of music comprised of traditional American folk and Golden Era country music, with hints of Bluegrass, Irish and Brazilian Choro folk and a concisely dynamic rhythm, all anchored by Berly's expressive, resonant baritone, while Hartless weaves inventive high-lonesome harmonies throughout, in a smoky tenor sometimes recalling early Neil Young.

Hailing from disparate locations (Los Angeles, Berkeley, Philadelphia, West Virginia) the members of The Old Yellers earned their various stripes in places ranging from Coastal music schools to Appalachian mountain barn dances, pub sessions in Dublin, Bluegrass hoedowns in Arcata, Ca, country music honky tonks and the folk and jam band festival world spanning the South to upstate New York that sprung from the early 90’s Grateful Dead scene.

With a penchant for winning over new crowds everywhere they play, a large repertoire of original music that is both memorable and familiar, and the ability to play timely crowd pleasing covers, The Old Yellers are a well-traveled and time-tested group. In addition to their previous four full length recordings, they are pleased to offer their latest, “Ten From Town”.