Artists
Bronwyn Keith-Hynes
Bronwyn Keith-Hynes is a Grammy Award-winning fiddler, singer, and songwriter known for her work with Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway and as a two-time IBMA Fiddle Player of the Year. Widely recognized as one of the most talented instrumentalists in bluegrass music, Keith-Hynes recently stepped into the spotlight as a vocalist and bandleader with her acclaimed album I Built a World.
A graduate of Berklee College of Music and a longtime fixture in the Nashville and bluegrass communities, Bronwyn blends traditional roots music with fresh creativity and boundless energy. Her music showcases both virtuosic musicianship and heartfelt storytelling, earning praise from fans and fellow artists across the Americana and bluegrass worlds.
The Hillbenders
The HillBenders are a high-energy progressive bluegrass band from the Ozarks of Southwest Missouri, known for blending the heart of bluegrass with the raw energy of rock ‘n’ roll. For more than 15 years, the original members have been captivating audiences across the country with their virtuosic musicianship, powerful harmonies, and engaging stage presence.
Widely recognized for pushing the boundaries of traditional bluegrass, The HillBenders have earned acclaim for innovative projects including Tommy: A Bluegrass Opry, their celebrated bluegrass interpretation of The Who’s legendary rock opera, as well as collaborations such as PettyGrass with Keller Williams. Their unique sound combines tradition, originality, humor, and fearless creativity.
Whether performing original music or reimagining classic rock favorites, The HillBenders deliver an unforgettable live show that keeps audiences dancing, singing along, and coming back for more. Get ready for one of the most exciting performances at Americana & Ales.
Dimension Bill Edwards
Dimension Bill Edwards is a Kansas City-based experimental Americana and indie-folk project led by songwriter Bill Edwards. Describing their sound as “rural sci-fi existentialism,” the band blends elements of folk, rock, poetry, storytelling, and Americana into a truly unique live experience. Drawing inspiration from history, literature, spirituality, and everyday life, Dimension Bill Edwards creates songs that are both thought-provoking and deeply entertaining.
Known for imaginative performances and genre-bending songwriting, Dimension Bill Edwards has built a devoted following throughout the Kansas City music scene. Their music invites audiences into a world where heartfelt storytelling meets creative exploration, making every performance a memorable journey.
The Lost Keys
The Lost Keys are a family string band from Lawrence, Kansas, blending old-time fiddle tunes, bluegrass, hillbilly swing, and traditional American roots music into a sound that is both timeless and deeply authentic. Led by acclaimed musicians Tricia Spencer and Howard Rains, the band showcases multiple generations of musicians sharing a rich musical heritage.
Featuring Tricia and Howard alongside their children Isaiah, Orion, and Ru, The Lost Keys deliver spirited performances filled with tight harmonies, masterful fiddling, and the kind of joyful energy that only a family band can create. Drawing from traditions passed down through generations, their music celebrates the heart of American folk and string band music while keeping audiences engaged from the first note to the last.
With a mix of old-time favorites, bluegrass standards, and swing-infused roots music, The Lost Keys bring an authentic Americana experience to every stage they play.
Calvin Arsenia
Calvin Arsenia is a Kansas City-based singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and internationally acclaimed harpist whose music blends Americana, folk, soul, pop, and R&B into a sound that is entirely his own. Known for his soulful vocals and virtuosic harp playing, Arsenia has captivated audiences around the world with performances that are both deeply personal and powerfully moving.
A celebrated performer, recording artist, author, and community leader, Calvin’s heartfelt songwriting explores themes of love, resilience, identity, and personal growth. His unique artistry has earned recognition across music, film, television, and live performance, while his dynamic stage presence creates an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.
Whether performing original music, reimagining familiar favorites, or showcasing his extraordinary harp skills, Calvin Arsenia delivers a genre-defying performance that bridges musical traditions and brings people together. Don’t miss one of Kansas City’s most distinctive and inspiring artists at Americana & Ales.
Dusty Rust
Dusty Rust delivers country and western music with a rock ‘n’ roll attitude. Originally from Idaho and forged in the Kansas City music scene, Dusty blends honky-tonk traditions, outlaw country grit, and heartland storytelling into a sound that’s authentic, energetic, and unmistakably his own.
A longtime favorite of Midwest roots music fans, Dusty built his reputation through years of live performances, including a legendary residency at Kansas City’s Westport Saloon and appearances alongside artists such as Dale Watson, Whitey Morgan, and Hellbound Glory. A 2017 Ameripolitan Award nominee, he continues to win over audiences with his raw vocals, engaging stage presence, and songs built for dance floors, dive bars, and long drives down open highways.
Whether performing fan favorites from Kansas City Cowboy, Stolen Horse, and Secret Desert or debuting new material, Dusty Rust brings a high-energy blend of country, rock, and Americana that perfectly captures the spirit of Americana & Ales.
Special Consensus
The Special Consensus is one of the most respected and enduring bands in bluegrass music. Led by banjo master Greg Cahill, the Chicago-based group has spent more than 50 years captivating audiences with its award-winning blend of traditional bluegrass, contemporary influences, and world-class musicianship. The band has earned multiple IBMA awards, two Grammy nominations, and a reputation as one of the genre’s premier touring acts.
Known for their outstanding harmonies, instrumental excellence, and energetic live performances, The Special Consensus continues to push bluegrass forward while honoring its rich traditions. Their engaging stage presence and timeless sound have made them favorites with audiences across the United States and around the world. Don’t miss this bluegrass powerhouse live at Americana & Ales in Downtown Shawnee.
Making Movies
Making Movies is a Latin Grammy-nominated band with roots in Kansas City, blending rock, Americana, cumbia, salsa, blues, and Afro-Latin rhythms into a powerful sound that reflects the diverse cultures of the Americas. Led by Panamanian-born songwriter Enrique Chi, the band has earned national acclaim for its genre-defying music, electrifying live performances, and commitment to using art as a force for connection and community.
Known for collaborations with legendary artists such as Rubén Blades and for albums praised by NPR and critics alike, Making Movies delivers a high-energy live show that is both musically adventurous and deeply rooted in storytelling. Their unique blend of Latin rhythms, rock ‘n’ roll, and American roots music creates an unforgettable concert experience that perfectly embodies the spirit of Americana & Ales.
Of A Feather
Of A Feather is the dynamic Americana duo of acclaimed singer-songwriters Kelly Hunt and Sara Morgan. What began as a friendship and shared tour evolved into a powerful musical partnership built on soaring harmonies, heartfelt storytelling, and a deep love of American roots music. Drawing inspiration from country, Americana, folk, and Southern rock traditions, the duo creates songs that are both timeless and fresh.
With haunting vocals, rich songwriting, and undeniable chemistry on stage, Of A Feather delivers performances that are intimate, authentic, and unforgettable. Their debut releases, including “Wild Cotton” and “No Man’s Land,” showcase a sound that blends the best of Americana and country music while highlighting the unique talents of both artists. Americana & Ales audiences won’t want to miss this rising Nashville duo.