Thursday morning, with much anticipation, I found myself on a westbound journey to my home that would last for the next couple of days. That’s correct, after a couple of years off due to the Pandemic Delfest was back on my plate!

Upon arrival on the grounds, I visited with my friends at their campsites, but I didn’t dally long, it was soon off to the Music Meadow and the Grandstand Stage for the Thursday festivities. I got to check out Del McCoury Bands sound check followed by the Delfest Academy’s band winners, I actually knew a few of them, then it was on to the Fireside Collective, Anders Osborne & Jackie Greene. Finally, I enjoyed Robert Earl Keen on his retirement tour, But “The Road Goes on Forever”, Robert, then ended my day to “Late Night with Leftover Salmon and the Lil’ Smokies”. It was a great kick start to the weekend’s entertainment.

I awoke to some rain on Friday morning which dampened the grounds but not the spirit of the festival. Highlights of Friday were Steve Poltz, energetic, funny, sad, uplifting, and just pure entertainment. Joined at one point by Leftover Salmons Vince Herman, Steve took his show down in the crowd to do “This Land is Your Land”.

Pennsylvania’s Cabinet took the Grandstand Stage followed by Bela’ Flecks My Bluegrass Heart. Bela’ lead this All-Star band with some exceptional musicianship. Guests included Michael Cleveland, Jerry Douglass, Sierra Hull, Jacob Jolliff, and of course, the Del McCoury Band. The Grandstand Stage closed out the night with Leftover Salmon.

Saturday morning started with a fresh dose of Baltimore music lead by the incredible songwriter Caleb Stine followed by The Dirty Grass Players. The Dirty Grass boys have been gaining a huge following and are destined for the big stage soon! Other notable performers were Della Mae, Railroad Earth and The California Honeydrops. These folks were a huge fan favorite! Travelin’ McCourys finished up the evening by rockin’ the Grandstand Stage.

On the final day of the festival, I started out with The Jakob’s Ferry Stragglers at the Potomac Stage, which have always been one of my favorite bands. I was definitely excited for Molly Tuttle and her band really delivered! It was an awesome set. I’m still singing “Crooked Tree”. Following her set was Bush solo, with Del, Ronnie McCoury, Sierra Hull and Jerry Douglass at different parts of Sam’s set. Of course, Del McCoury Band are always on the mark. Finally, the closer was Tyler Childers backed by the Travelin’ McCourys. This brought a cool bluegrass facet to Tyler’s music.

Delfest is always an excellent festival that renews my faith in humanity. So much music that I couldn’t get to it all. This festival features great bands, great crew, and always an awesome experience. No complaints!

Del Yeah, see ya next year!