Bill & the Belles

How does one describe a band that has obvious and deep roots planted in old, classic, country music (think Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs) and share a collective sense of humor and thoroughly modern mindset? This is Bill & the Bells.

First, there is no "Bill." Singer and guitarist Kris Truelsen plays Bill on TV and stage. The Belles are fiddler and singer Kalia Yeagle, and  banjo/banjo-uke player and singer Aidan VanSuetendael. Bassist Andrew Small keeps the beat and fills in the bottom, receiving no stage name in the process.

Kris Truelsen's respect and delight in American roots music has resulted in radio and television programs on public stations that serve the Appalachian Highlands region. In addition, he sings, plays guitar, and writes songs. While most of his songs pay homage to old country music, the themes and humor are thoroughly modern.

Kalia Yeagle is a full-time teacher of roots music at the university level, and performs professionally. Kalia grew up in Alaska, the daughter of a bluegrass musician, and her music has been called "boundary-defying, while remaining grounded in the wisdom of tradition."

Adain VanSueTandael, raised in a musical family in Stuart, Florida, learned Irish music from her mother and an appreciation of contemporary folk-rock from her dad. She attended Denison University, playing banjo in the school's bluegrass program. In addition to music, Aidan has published poetry and is working on a book.

Andrew Small, singer, composer, and multi-instrumentalist, earned a Master's degree in music performance at Yale University, and has performed around the world with various artists and the North Carolina Symphony. At the 29th Annual Merlefest Chris Austin Songwriting Contest, Andrew and his wife won first prize in the bluegrass category. In his spare time, Andrew is learning to craft both violins and the art of distilling.

Bill and the Belles have performed all over the U.S. and have a large following in the U.K.