Part Southern gentleman, part humble artist, Barnes is being more than a bit self-effacing with this statement. Widely regarded as one of the most innovative and genre-bending artists of his craft, Barnes’ musical interests are both varied and adventurous, and he incorporates that versatility into a progressive approach to an instrument that is musically polarizing and steeped in tradition. Although he demonstrates an appreciation for the history of the bluegrass, country, and folk music from which the banjo’s reputation was born, his inventive take is what truly separates him from his contemporaries…using the banjo as his ‘weapon of choice’ to play non-traditional music like rock, fusion, and jazz with electronic percussion and loop elements. Barnes found an ally in Dave Matthews (co-founder of ATO Records). “In the process of developing these ideas, one of the things I ended up doing a few times with my friend Dave, was to sit around and eat sandwiches and swap songs; new stuff we were working on. “Here’s one..….(jam) ….now play one of yours! (jam)”, it’s a great way to spend a day.” Having played several shows with Dave Matthews Band in recent years, Danny was invited to perform on the band’s latest platinum release, Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King. Throughout the process, the two had become friends, and Matthews’ enthusiasm for Barnes brought this body of work to light, with Matthews even contributing backing vocals on some of the songs (including lead single, “Overdue”) and the cover art illustration of the album. "From the first time he sat down and played me 'Road', I knew his next record was going to be great, but I didn't expect this. The music is smart and soulful, and the lyrics are profound. It is heaven and earth. It is Americana, from the back porch to the pulpit, shattered dreams on angel's wings. I can't stop listening." - Dave Matthews

BMATours mourns the loss of another friend Mr. Willie "Big Eyes" Smith who died September 16 from complications of a stroke. Willie played drums in Muddy Waters Band for 12 years before leaving to start the Legendary Blues Band in 1980 with Pinetop Perkins who passed earlier this year. Willie and Pinetop Won a Grammy and a Blues Music Award in 2011 for their album "Joined at the Hip". Willie had won 8 Blues Music Awards for Best Drummer and was nominated for both Best Drummer and Best Harmonica Player in 2010!! Willie will be sadly missed, he was a kind heart and a pleasure to be around for all who knew him!!