Good Trees River Band (GTRB) is a name that has become synonymous with electrifying live performances and a sound that continually pushes the boundaries of genre. What began as a casual musical collaboration among high school friends has evolved into a band that commands festival stages and captivates audiences across the Eastern United States. This is the story of GTRB’s remarkable journey from their humble beginnings to becoming festival favorites.

The Genesis: High School Days

The roots of GTRB trace back to 2015 in Massachusetts, where three high school friends decided to take their shared passion for music to the next level. Their initial setup was simple, lacking a bass player, but their enthusiasm and love for jamming together were palpable. The early days were filled with open mics, bar gigs, and private parties. These experiences, while modest, were instrumental in shaping the band’s identity and laying the groundwork for their future.

The Turning Point: Ned Brady Joins the Band

The year 2016 marked a significant turning point for GTRB. The addition of Ned Brady on bass transformed the band’s dynamic, injecting a new level of depth and richness to their sound. This lineup change sparked a wave of creativity, leading to the release of a four-track EP. The EP was well-received, helping GTRB make a splash beyond Southeast Massachusetts and gaining them new fans.

Expanding Horizons: First Full-Length Tour

As GTRB’s sound evolved, so did their ambitions. By 2019, they were ready to embark on their first full-length tour, a 20-date journey that took them through New England, NYC, New Jersey, and Virginia. This tour was a critical step in expanding their reach and showcasing their music to a broader audience. The energy and authenticity of their performances resonated with fans, establishing GTRB as a formidable live act.

The Breakthrough: Hold on to Your Horses

June 2020 saw the release of GTRB’s full-length album, Hold on to Your Horses. This album was a culmination of years of hard work, reflecting the band’s musical evolution from their early jam and Americana influences to a more complex and psychedelic sound. The tracks on the album showcased the band’s ability to blend different genres seamlessly, creating a sound that was both innovative and deeply rooted in their musical journey.

The album was a game-changer, earning GTRB acclaim and attracting a growing fanbase. The band’s sound had matured, becoming richer and more dynamic, yet still retaining the playful and experimental spirit that defined their early days.

Festival Favorites: Making Their Mark

With the release of Hold on to Your Horses, GTRB began to make their mark on the festival circuit. Their live shows became known for their high energy, spontaneity, and the diverse soundscape they offered. Whether they were playing at intimate venues or major festivals, GTRB’s performances were consistently engaging and memorable.

Sharing stages with notable artists such as Ripe, Kung Fu, Eggy, West End Blend, Larry Keel, The Claypool Lennon Delirium, Adam Ezra Group, and Strange Machines, GTRB proved they could hold their own among some of the best in the industry. Their ability to captivate audiences and deliver standout performances solidified their reputation as festival favorites.

The Road Ahead: A Promising Future

Today, GTRB continues to tour extensively, bringing their music to audiences from Maine to Macon to Key West. Their journey from high school friends playing local gigs to festival favorites is a testament to their passion, dedication, and willingness to evolve. Each performance, each new release, is a chapter in their ongoing story, one that promises many more exciting moments and milestones.

As GTRB looks to the future, they remain committed to their craft and their fans. Their story is far from over, and with their ever-expanding sound and growing popularity, the best is yet to come. For those who have followed them from the beginning and for those just discovering their music, the evolution of Good Trees River Band is a journey worth following. So, keep your eyes and ears open, because GTRB is a band that is always on the move, always evolving, and always ready to bring their unique brand of musical magic to the stage.