The Ashley Gang
The ever-popular Ashley Gang is known for their harmonies and original songs.
Singing original songs with beautiful harmony and accompanied by a plethora of instruments, this group of solo performers, duos, and songwriters formed well over 10 years ago. At first, solo artists and songwriters Al Scortino and Paul Garfinkel decided to share the stage at the 1998 Barberville Fall Jamboree, including the back-up singer and bass player who performed with both of them — the late Michelle Lowe. The band became one of Florida's best loved acts and released their first CD in 2000 CD. Doing TIme contained Paul Garfinkel's "The Creek" and Al Scortino's song "
The Ashley Gang, now has four (sometimes five) members and still most often performs the music of Al Scortino and Paul Garfinkel. Al and Paul are joined by Kay Garfinkel on flute, djembe, and vocals; Bob Bronar is heard on guitar and mandolin.
If it has to be categorized, The Ashley Gang's genre can veer from Americana, to folk, to acoustic rock. Their songs have intelligent and thoughtful lyrics with universal appeal, reminding their audience of times past, special moments, life in northeast Florida, and the history of the original and nefarious Ashley Gang of criminals from early in the last century. Individually and as solo performers, they have released more than 6 CD's, and are favorite performers at the best Florida Folk Festivals, including St. Augustine's Gamble Rogers Festival.
