Wisconsin’s STEALIN’ STRINGS, recognized for their lively performances, captivating song-writing, and dapper good looks are erupting on the national music scene. Intermingling American roots music with ethnic and rock sensibilities, blending and bouncing between electric and acoustic instrumentation, and generating a positive musical experience brands STEALIN’ STRINGS a “must see” act.
Formed just outside Milwaukee, WI in 2002 by Ryan Ogburn (mandolin/guitar/lead vocals) and Rob Shively (guitar/lead vocals), the two performed as an acoustic duo, exchanging lead vocals and crafting unruffled harmonies. Absorbing all they could from local bluegrass gatherings and drawing from their rock influences, the two designed a sound of old time fervor with a modernistic approach that left listeners desiring more.
Laterally appeared Rob Buehler (drumkit), a rhythmic, melody-conscious player with equivalent musical tastes and Matt Turner (bass), a deep tone yielding, rhythm-minded player, proficient in style and composition.
With the affixed rhythm section, Ogburn and Shively were able to delve into musical territories previously unvisited and expand to where there are no boundaries. “The rhythm section of Buehler and Turner provides an endless landscape,” says Shively. While Buehler adds, “The dual front man team of Ogburn and Shively really keeps things fresh and inspiring.” Together, they shape the STEALIN’ STRINGS sound that fuses traditional and ethnic roots music with rock innovations and improvisations in an unguarded musical terrain.
Today, with support of fans and the ever-growing volunteer campaign, STEALIN’ STRINGS continues to tour and thrive in a live setting. Playing with the likes of Bill Nershi, Railroad Earth, Vince Herman, Yonder Mountain String Band, & Hot Buttered Rum, while remaining vibrant in the mid-west music scene, swapping shows with bands like The Big Wu, Trampled by Turtles, White Iron Band, and Cornmeal. STEALIN’ STRINGS plans to extend their music to new cities and venues across the country.
