We can't wait for you to come experience this North Carolina–based alt-country / honky-tonk band led by singer-songwriter John Howie Jr., a longtime figure in the Chapel Hill music scene.
"When North Carolina’s honky-tonk heroes the Two Dollar Pistols broke up in 2008- leaving behind a legacy that included five full-length CD’s, an EP of duets with Grammy nominee Tift Merritt, and several US and European tours- lead singer/songwriter John Howie Jr. already had the seeds planted for a new group, one that would continue the Pistols tradition of making soulful honky-tonk based music for contemporary times(John Howie, Jr. and the Rosewood Bluff!)" Triangle Live Music
The current lineup typically includes:
John Howie Jr. – vocals, rhythm guitar
Nathan Golub – pedal steel
Tim Shearer – electric guitar
Mark Connor – bass
Dave Hartman – drums
Their sound? They play a very traditional-leaning style of country:
--Honky-tonk & Bakersfield-style country
--Alt-country / Americana
--Pedal steel, twangy guitars, and baritone vocals
Their music deliberately pushes back against modern pop-country. Howie has said mainstream radio country is “the farthest thing” from what he’s interested in.
Critically, they’re often described as:
--Classic country revivalists
--Influenced by artists like George Jones–style vocals and outlaw country
--Focused on themes like heartbreak, working-class struggle, and flawed characters
The Bynum Front Porch Summer Music Series happens on warm summer evenings from 7:00–8:30 PM out at the old Bynum General Store. The shows are free, though we do pass the hat to help take care of the musicians who share their songs with us. There’s always a food truck parked outside, and the whole thing feels less like a concert and more like neighbors gathering. Kids running around barefoot, folks leaning back in lawn chairs, and the sound of music drifting out across the Haw River valley.
Bring a chair if you like, or use one of ours, we’ve got plenty. Parking is free and easy in the field next door or down at the Bynum ball field. Just a couple simple house rules: no alcohol and no pets, please. Come on out, grab some supper, settle in, and enjoy a sweet summer evening with the community.
Come rock with us.