The Jimmy Touzel Bluegrass Explosion (JTBX) is not your grandpa’s bluegrass band—but he’d probably love them anyway. Born in the San Francisco Bay Area in 2024, this high-energy supergroup is on a mission to shake the dust off traditional bluegrass and make it swing, stomp, and slap.
At the helm is Jimmy Touzel, a South Carolina native with a big bass and even bigger stage presence. He’s joined by a crack team of pickers and singers: Evan Ward burns up the banjo, Ryan Breen brings the soul on guitar, Dana Frankel fiddles like it’s 1939, and Josh Gooding’s mandolin might just catch fire if you’re not careful. Together, they mix tight harmonies, wild solos, and a whole lot of fun.
Their sound is steeped in first-generation bluegrass but also takes inspiration from old-time, honky tonk, gospel, swing, and 1950s rock ’n’ roll. Expect deep cuts, fresh originals, and classics that’ll make you shake your booty—whether you’re at a dance hall, dive bar, or festival lawn.
JTBX isn’t just about hot licks—they’ve got serious chops. Between them, the members have worked with some of the most respected names in traditional bluegrass such as Audie Blaylock & Red Line, The Earl Brothers, Doyle Lawson, Windy Hill, Jason Carter, Dailey & Vincent, and more. But don’t let the resumes fool you—this band is all heart, grit, and good times.
Whether it’s a packed festival or a back-porch jam, The Jimmy Touzel Bluegrass Explosion is here to blow the doors off and bring traditional bluegrass roaring into the present.