THE HIGH WATER LINE

Emerging from the music scene of the San Francisco Bay Area, these four talented musicians crossed paths in 2017 through the common thread of the Northern California bluegrass community. From their first meeting they knew the music they could create would be special, and in their four years together they have continued to grow not only musically, but as close friends, adding their distinctive style to the ever evolving West Coast bluegrass sound.

While their music is steeped in the time-honored Northern California bluegrass tradition, The High Water Line is not afraid to break the rules and explore whatever music inspires them. These four talented musicians reach into the music of country, soul, swing, and blues, creating clever arrangements and a unique sound that’s all their own.

Their line-up features Jim Toggweiler’s grooving and unconventional electric bass style, TJ Carskadon’s hard-hitting and steadfast mandolin, Tyler Stegall’s driving and colorful banjo licks, and Clare Armenante’s swinging and melodic fiddle playing. Further adding to the energy of their performances are their dynamic vocals, with every member changing lead and harmony roles for varied arrangements. The High Water Line gives new life to old bluegrass standards; offers refreshing approaches to more modern country and bluegrass numbers; and writes heartfelt and fun-loving originals.

Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, you’ll find the High Water Line performing on all different stages, from tiny dive bars to large festivals. In 2019, the High Water Line was chosen as a California Showcase Band by the California Bluegrass Association to perform on the main stage at the Father’s Day Bluegrass Festival in Grass Valley, CA. They have also had the privilege to perform at the Berkeley Bluegrass Festival and Good Old Fashioned Festival, will soon appear at the Parkfield Bluegrass Festival, and have appeared a number of times at The Freight & Salvage including “Freight Fest Online” in 2021. The High Water Line has also shared the stage with some top artists including The Kathy Kallick Band, Grammy nominated Wood & Wire, The Lonely Heartstring Band, and Wood Belly.

RECORDINGS

In July, 2019, The High Water Line released their debut album, Introducing The High Water Line. It features a diverse tracklist of heartfelt and hard-driving originals, and creative workings of less familiar bluegrass songs and recent country songs that they love.

photography

Here are some selections from The High Water Line’s most recent photo shoot. If there is a more specific photo you are looking to use for promotional material, please contact thehighwaterline@gmail.com.