The Dixie Red Delights, a new gathering of some of Vermont's most talented instrumentalists, formed from a variety of past collaborations and perform Erin McDermott's original material. The band fuses elements from their diverse backgrounds in jazz, bluegrass, and rock, adding a fresh and exciting edge to Erin's music.
When seeing the Dixie Red Delights perform, bring your dancing shoes and prepare to have fun! Get ready for the fiery, inventive solos of guitarist/mandolinist Doug Perkins, complemented by Ben Roy's clever percussion melodies and Jen Wells' rhythmically creative bass lines. You'll never know what to expect!
electric and acoustic guitar, mandolin
Doug brings a wealth of experience and talent to the group. He is best known for his work with Smokin' Grass and for his duet performances with mandolinist Jamie Masefield as well as performances with greats such as Vassar Clements, Mike Gordon, Jon Fishman, and Leftover Salmon. With his stylistically precise leads and intricate melodies, Doug's distinctive guitar and mandolin style provide an essential rhythmic and harmonic layer to the Dixie Red Delights.
upright bass, acoustic bass
Classically trained on upright bass from age 11, Jen honed her craft in Kansas City, Missouri, performing in school orchestra, youth symphonies, rock bands, and pit orchestras. She went to college with a music scholarship and performed with the wind symphony, symphony orchestra, and jazz band as well as various jazz combos, pit orchestras, and choral accompaniments. Jen is a member of Kappa Kappa Psi, national honorary band fraternity. With tasteful bass lines and sheer knowledge, Jen communicates a perfect rhythm that steals the show.
percussion
A central Vermont native, Ben has been performing in the area since his teenage years, collaborating with many of the area's best talents. With a diverse listening and playing background, Ben never fails to surprise his bandmates and audiences with creative, exciting beats and unmatched energy, making the percussion a part of the song's melody.