The Ragbirds exhibit a gleeful disregard for contemporary folk-rock convention. The five-piece project is clearly built around the multi-talented Erin Zindle, who is not only the singer and songwriter, but is proficient in a variety of stringed instruments. This classically trained violinist can aptly pluck the eight-stringed mandolin, wield a wild accordion, and rock the banjo while maintaining lead vocals. Surrounding Zindle's earthy-sweet voice is the whirlwind of a guitarist T.J. Zindle, drummer Loren Kranz, and standout percussionist Randall Moore. This high-energy crew has enjoyed a busy year. They released their fourth studio album, "Travelin’ Machine" and a live album "We Belong to the Love," toured nationally, made their debut SXSW appearance, appeared on a Sustainable Touring TED talk at TEDx Grand Rapids, returned to the CMJ showcase in New York City, and made a number of national festival appearances. The Ragbirds' old van, Cecelia, recently gave up the ghost after 300,000 miles of faithul service, so they're calling this fall's tour the Brave New Baby tour, and they're working on a lot of new music!