The Northern England quartet will perform at IBMA World of Bluegrass in Chattanooga this fall before launching a U.S. tour in 2026
The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) has announced that The Often Herd, a Newcastle-based bluegrass quartet, is the recipient of the 2025 IBMA International Band Performance Grant.
This grant aims to support non-U.S. bands in expanding their presence in the American bluegrass scene, assisting with travel costs, visa coordination, and tour support.
Formed in 2014 on the Isle of Mull, The Often Herd comprises Rupert Hughes (guitar), Evan Davies (mandolin), Niles Krieger (fiddle), and Sam Quintana (bass). Their music blends traditional bluegrass with elements unique to Northern England, creating a distinctive sound that has garnered them a dedicated following across the UK and Europe.
Notably, they were named “Best European Bluegrass Band” at the 2018 La Roche Bluegrass Festival in France. In 2021, they showcased their talents as Official Showcase Artists at IBMA World of Bluegrass in Raleigh, North Carolina. Their debut album, Where the Big Lamp Shines, received critical acclaim and solidified their reputation in the UK roots and festival circuits.
Check out the video for their newest single, “Cool Summer Rain,” below.
As part of the grant, The Often Herd will perform at the 2025 IBMA World of Bluegrass this September 16–20 in downtown Chattanooga. Chattanooga is hosting the event for the first time, marking a new chapter for the festival after its relocation from Raleigh.
Following their return to the U.S. for the World of Bluegrass events, The Often Herd will embark on a summer tour in 2026, bringing their transatlantic bluegrass sound to audiences across the states.
Tickets to IBMA World of Bluegrass events are on sale now — purchase them here.
The week-long event includes a business conference, artist showcases, the IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards, and the two-day IBMA Bluegrass Live! festival, featuring performances across downtown Chattanooga.
Follow The Often Herd: Instagram | Spotify | Bandcamp
Follow IBMA: Instagram | Facebook | IBMA.org
