Biography

With predictable regularity, the Western side of the U.S. produces a bluegrass band that turns heads. It is happening again. Sawmill Road is a collection of seasoned, award-winning musicians with original, dynamic and captivating styles. Together, they create a powerful mixture of bluegrass and a sound that is theirs alone.

:: member bios ::

Steve Spurgin — bass :: A native son of the Lone Star State, Steve’s professional career has covered the gamut. Steve is a former Nashville staff-writer for Gene Watson and Reba McEntire and has received a BMI writers’ award, three IBMA Band of the Year awards, and is a “New Folk” winner at the Kerrville Folk Festival. He has performed and toured with Wild Oats, Cheyenne, Byron Berline’s band Sundance, Mason Williams, Freddy Fender, The Limeliters, Bluegrass Etc. and the bluegrass super-group California. His rock-solid bass provides the foundation every band requires.

Doug Bartlett — fiddle :: Like the other members of Sawmill Road, Doug brings a wealth of experience and awards with him. Originally from Syracuse NY, he is a former member of Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, and recorded two Grammy nominated projects — Winding Through Life and Just Over in Heaven. The CD, Winding Through Life, was The IBMA Gospel Recording of the Year. While with The James King Band, he won The IBMA Emerging Artist of the Year award. Doug also is a previous member of The Lonesome River Band as well as other major, national bluegrass groups.

Dick Brown — banjo :: As a master of his bluegrass-defining instrument, Dick travels the world performing, teaching and sharing his love of banjo. Originally from New Mexico, he is a two-time winner of the Four Corners State Banjo Championship. His playing style centers on taste, tone and power. His technique and genuine understanding of banjo music shines through on every song. Dick has performed and recorded with Lost Highway, Long Lonesome Road, Lynn Morris, Copper River, Traditional Bluegrass, and others.

Charlie Edsall — guitar :: Hailing from the Fort Wayne, Indiana area, Charlie began playing guitar at the age of 9. Although he also plays bass and banjo, his accomplished ability on the acoustic guitar proves he is a consummate pro. As a writer, his self-penned Cold Virginia Rain is the no. 1 cut on Bluegrass Prime Cuts, Vol. 69 on Pinecastle Records, and has been recorded by Josh Williams and performed by Rhonda Vincent & The Rage on The Grand Old Opry. Charlie has performed and toured with Feather River, High Strung, and Ron Spears & Within Tradition.

Mark Miracle — mandolin :: A product of the state of Arizona, Mark is a multi-instrumentalist who handles the mandolin and tenor duties with clear style. He is a professional music veteran of long standing with a fresh approach to bluegrass that never abandons its roots and is always clean, tasteful and driving. Mark has won numerous mandolin contests, including Payson, Blythe and Wickenburg. He is a former member of The Shady Creek Band, Mountain Therapy, and Clear Blue — winner of the Telluride Bluegrass Festival band contest.