The Dead South performing at the ACL Live Moody Theater in Austin, Texas on August 29, 2025, with Nathaniel Hilts, Scott Pringle, Colton "Crawdaddy" Crawford, and Danny Kenyon. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
In a music world often obsessed with polished perfection, The Dead South emerges from the prairie provinces of Canada like a group of outlaws riding into town, armed with banjos, cellos, and a thirst for high octane folk. They aren’t your grandfather’s bluegrass band. Clad in signature black and white attire, suspenders, and wide brimmed hats, the quartet, Nate Hilts on vocals and guitar, Scott Pringle on mandolin and harmonies, Colton Crawford on banjo, and Danny Kenyon on cello, presents a visual aesthetic as distinctive as their sound. They are the epitome of "gothic grass," a term they’ve practically owned, blending the frantic energy of punk rock with the storytelling soul of folk and the gritty precision of bluegrass.
The atmosphere is electric, charged with the palpable excitement of a devoted fanbase dressed in the band’s signature uniform of black hats and bolo ties. This isn't just a concert; it's a communion for the "Good Company" community that has grown up around The Dead South since their early days in Regina, Saskatchewan. Their sound, self-described as "Saskatchewan's most lovable outlaws," is a dark and compelling blend of bluegrass, folk, and rock that they’ve affectionately dubbed “blackgrass.” It's a style that defies easy categorization and has earned them a loyal following far beyond the traditional bluegrass circuit.
Their journey began with the surprise viral hit, "In Hell I'll Be in Good Company," a song that launched them from a local favorite to a global sensation. This success, however, wasn't a fluke. It was the result of a steadfast commitment to their authentic sound and a unique aesthetic that has become their calling card. Their music tackles classic themes of murder, betrayal, and ghosts with a mischievous grin, a nod to the "Carter Family meets Addams Family" vibe they embody.
On stage, their performance is a masterclass in musical synergy. The intricate banjo rolls, the lightning-fast mandolin, the haunting cello, and the raw, guttural vocals all combine to create a sound that is both meticulously crafted and wildly spontaneous. They move through their set with a veteran's confidence, transitioning seamlessly from high-energy, foot-stomping numbers to stripped-down, emotionally resonant ballads. It's this dynamic range, this ability to be both fiercely powerful and surprisingly tender, that truly sets them apart. They’ve managed to create a world of their own, one where dusty folk tales and rock and roll energy coexist, leaving the audience with an experience that lingers long after the final note has faded into the night.
Fan reviews:Setlist for the show at the ACL Live Moody Theater
The Dead South are a must see band! Their funky Bluegrass style is floor stomping and fast pickin! We had a blast! Our scond show and will be forever fans! Nathan, Pringle, Crawdad and Danny! Y'all rock our socks off!
I have seen The Dead South quite a few times. The set list for this concert was different than the last ones. Which brought a freshness to this concert. The Dead South played about 25 minutes longer than the other concerts I have attended. While I consider The Dead South some of the best musicians in the business, they upped their game even more at this concert. The Dead South were electric this night. This venue is not played by the bigger names often. This was a concert I will never forget.
Amazing! The Dead South were amazing. It was my daughter's first concert and she loved it. They put on a heck of a show.
The Dead South is top notch! I love these guys! They are even better live so do yourself a favor and go see them! Fun, great stage presentation and presence!
One of the best shows I've been to! I've loved this band for years and was wildly impressed by their live show. They're so in sync with each other and are incredible musicians. They're charming guys and know how to make people have fun. See The Dead South any chance you get!
- Snake Man Pt. 1
- Snake Man Pt. 2
- 20 Mile Jump
- Son of Ambrose
- Boots
- Yours To Keep
- Time for Crawlin'
- The Recap
- Father John
- That Bastard Son
- Black Lung
- A Little Devil
- Broken Cowboy
- Miss Mary
- In Hell I'll Be in Good Company
- Honey You
- Clemency
- Completely, Sweetly
- Travellin' Man
- Banjo Odyssey
The Dead South was the main act at the ACL Live Moody Theater with guests Parker Millsap. They continue across the United States, Canada, South America, and Europe with the last stop at the Razzmatazz 1 in Barcelona, Spain on March 29, 2026.
The Dead South
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Photos by Ralph Arvesen
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