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Leftover Salmon
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Leftover Salmon is an American jam band from Boulder, Colorado, formed in 1989. The band's music is a blend of bluegrass, rock, country, and Cajun/Zydeco (Polyethnic Slamgrass). Over their thirty years as a band, Salmon has released seven studio albums and three live albums. The band celebrated their continuing thirty-year career with the release of the biographical book, Leftover Salmon: Thirty Years of Festival! and a vinyl box-set re-release of all of their studio albums.[1]

Key Information

History

[edit]

The band formed in 1989 when members of the Salmon Heads (Vince Herman, Dave Dorian, and Gerry Cavagnaro) combined with members of the Left Hand String Band (Drew Emmitt and Glenn Keefe) to play a New Year's Eve show in 1989 at the Eldo in Crested Butte, Colorado. Herman had previously played with Emmitt in the Left Hand String Band and had called on his former bandmates Emmitt and Keefe to fill in for some missing members of the Salmon Heads for the New Year's Eve show. They chose the name Leftover Salmon on the drive to the show.[2]

The synergy worked and the result was Leftover Salmon. The lineup changed significantly over the years, but the "Big Three" – Drew Emmitt, Vince Herman, and Mark Vann — remained the heart of the band until Vann's death in 2002.[3][4]

After the independent release of Bridges to Bert in 1993 [5] and the 1995 live follow-up Ask the Fish,[6] Leftover Salmon gained a spot on the H.O.R.D.E. festival tour and a contract with Hollywood Records.[3] Their Hollywood debut and second studio album, Euphoria with guest keyboardist Pete Sears, continued to define their eclectic sound and introduced many songs that became their most notable. They released four albums with the Disney Music Group-owned label.[4] In 1999, Nashville Sessions was released, with guests Waylon Jennings, Jerry Douglas, Lucinda Williams, John Bell, Del McCoury, Ronnie McCoury, Béla Fleck, Sam Bush, John Cowan, Todd Park Mohr, Earl Scruggs, Randy Scruggs, Jeff Hanna, Sally Van Meter, Jeff Coffin, Jo-El Sonnier, Taj Mahal, Danny Boone and Reese Wynans. In 2000, Bill McKay, formerly of The Derek Trucks Band, joined the band on keyboards and vocals and the band recorded several of his songs. He remained with the band until late 2011.

In March 2002, founding member and banjoist Mark Vann died from cancer.[7] He was succeeded by Matt Flinner and then Noam Pikelny.[8]

In 2003, the band teamed up with David Lowery and Johnny Hickman of Cracker (and formerly Camper Van Beethoven) to release the critically acclaimed 10-song album, "O' Cracker Where Art Thou?" (Pitch a Tent), 2003, which was a compilation of ten of Cracker's best songs done Leftover Salmon style.

In 2004, the band announced they were going on hiatus at the end of that year.[9]

An award-nominated documentary film of Leftover Salmon, titled Years in Your Ears, was released on DVD in November 2006.[10]

Leftover Salmon reunited in 2007 and played six performances, including the High Sierra Music Festival in Quincy, California, the All Good Festival in West Virginia, as well as Denver and Boulder, Colorado shows in late December. Leftover Salmon marked their unofficial return to the stage with a performance at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival on Sunday, June 24, 2007, as "Drew Emmitt and Vince Herman and Friends." They were introduced by Jeff Austin of Yonder Mountain String Band with the line, "We know what it might say in the program, but I think we all really know what's going on here."[11]

Despite their various successful side projects, Leftover Salmon played seven times during the summer of 2008 and 2009.[12] For a special New Years run, the band celebrated 20 years as a band by returning to the site of their first show in Crested Butte, Colorado: The Eldo. The band played four shows through Denver and Boulder during this run while celebrating their 20th anniversary. Since moving Andy Thorn into the banjo role, the band has been touring more than usual with small runs throughout the country.

On May 22, 2012, the band released their first album since their hiatus. The album was called Aquatic Hitchhiker.[12] An extensive promotional tour followed including the Summer Camp Music Festival and the Telluride Bluegrass Festival.[13]

Starting on June 19, 2012, the band is the featured "house band" at the Whales Tail Bar in Breckenridge, Colorado, on the After the Catch episodes of Deadliest Catch.[14]

In 2015, they released the studio album High Country and the following year released a compilation double album of live performances with the title 25.[3] They released their next studio album, Something Higher, in 2018.

As the band neared their 30th anniversary they were profiled in the book Leftover Salmon: Thirty Years of Festival! by author Tim Newby. The book chronicled the band's long influential history and their role in the development of the jam band and jamgrass scenes.[15] In 2019, keyboardist Erik Deutsch left the group to join The Chicks.[16]

Band members

[edit]

Current members

[edit]
  • Vince Herman – vocals, guitar, washboard (1989–present)
  • Drew Emmitt – vocals, mandolin, fiddle, electric guitar (1989–present)
  • Greg Garrison – bass, vocals (2000–present)
  • Andy Thorn – banjo, electric banjo, vocals (2007–present)
  • Alwyn Robinson – drums, vocals (2013–present)
  • Jay Starling - keyboards, dobro (2022-present)

Former members

[edit]
  • Dave Dorian - drums (1989-1990)
  • Gerry Cavagnaro - accordion, concertina, harmonica (1989 -1990)
  • Glenn Keefe – bass (1989–1992)
  • Josey Wales - drums (1990-1992)
  • Mark Vann – banjo, electric banjo (1990–2002)
  • Joe Jogerst – keyboards (1990–1994)
  • Michael Wooten – drums (1992–1997)
  • Chris Engleman - bass (1993)
  • Tye North – bass (1993–2000)
  • Jeff Sipe – drums (1997–2000)
  • Bill McKay – keyboards, vocals (2000–2011)
  • Jose Martinez – drums (2000–2013)
  • Noam Pikelny – banjo, electric banjo (2002–2008)
  • Bill Payne – keyboards, vocals (2014-2015)
  • Erik Deutsch – keyboards (2016–2020)


Featured artists


Timeline

[edit]

Selective discography

[edit]

Albums

[edit]

Leftover Salmon

[edit]
Year Title Label
1993 Bridges to Bert Whirled Beets
1995 Ask the Fish Bert
1997 Euphoria Hollywood
1999 The Nashville Sessions Hollywood [17]
2002 Live Compass Records[18]
2004 Leftover Salmon Compendia [19]
2012 Aquatic Hitchhiker Los Records
2014 High Country Los Records [20]
2016 25 Los Records
2018 Something Higher Los Records
2021 Brand New Good Old Days Compass Records[21]
2023 Grass Roots Compass Records[22]
2025 Let’s Party About It Compass Records

Collaboration

[edit]

Videos

[edit]
  • Years In Your Ears ...a Story of Leftover Salmon (2006, DVD)

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Leftover Salmon

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Leftover Salmon is an American formed in , on 1989, renowned for pioneering the "jamgrass" genre by fusing progressive bluegrass with rock, Cajun, , and psychedelic elements. The band originated from a merger of the local groups Salmon Heads and the Left Hand String Band, with founding members including guitarist/vocalist , mandolinist/fiddler/vocalist Drew Emmitt, bassist Dave Dorian, drummer Gerry Cavagnaro, and banjoist Glenn Keefe, who came together for a one-off performance before solidifying as a unit. Over its more than three-decade history, Leftover Salmon evolved from playing bluegrass-infused sets in rock venues to becoming influential figures in the jam band scene, credited with coining and popularizing "Polyethnic Cajun Slamgrass" through innovative blends of calypso, , and other roots styles. Key early albums include Bridges to Bert (1993), Ask the Fish (1995), Euphoria (1997), and The Nashville Sessions (1999), which showcased their eclectic sound and helped establish them on tours like the H.O.R.D.E. festival circuit alongside roots music luminaries. The group experienced lineup changes, including the 2002 death of banjoist Mark Vann, leading to a hiatus from 2004 to 2007, after which they reformed with banjoist Andy Thorn joining in 2010; the current stable lineup consists of Emmitt (mandolin, fiddle, electric guitar, vocals), Herman (guitar, vocals), Thorn (banjo, vocals), bassist/vocalist Greg Garrison, drummer Alwyn Robinson, and multi-instrumentalist Jay Starling (keys, dobro). Leftover Salmon has released later albums such as Aquatic Hitchhiker (2012) and Brand New Good Old Days (2021), maintaining their reputation for high-energy live performances at festivals and venues, and in 2025, they marked their 35th anniversary with the album Let’s Party About It and a co-headlining show at . The band was inducted into the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, recognizing their enduring impact on American roots and jam music.

History

Origins and formation

Leftover Salmon formed on 1989 in , when members of the local Cajun-jug band Salmon Heads merged with the progressive bluegrass group Left Hand String Band for a collaborative performance. The Salmon Heads, led by guitarist and vocalist , featured drummer Dave Dorian and accordionist Gerry Cavagnaro, while the Left Hand String Band included mandolinist and vocalist Drew Emmitt, banjoist Mark Vann, and bassist Glenn Keefe. This impromptu union, born out of necessity when some Salmon Heads members could not attend the gig, proved so successful that it birthed the new band, blending bluegrass, Cajun, and rock elements in what would become known as "polyethnic Cajun slamgrass." The name Leftover Salmon was chosen en route to the show, reflecting the casual, leftover nature of the collaboration. The initial lineup centered on co-founders Herman and Emmitt, with Vann on , Keefe on bass, and early percussion support from Dorian, though the rhythm section evolved quickly with additions like bassist Rob Galloway and drummer Michael Wooten by the early 1990s. Drawing from the vibrant late-1980s jam band scene in , the group emphasized improvisational energy and genre fusion, setting them apart from traditional bluegrass acts. Their early sound incorporated Herman's theatrical stage presence and Emmitt's and work, creating a lively, danceable style that appealed to college-town audiences. In their formative years, Leftover Salmon honed their craft through frequent gigs in clubs, bars, and ski-town venues, such as the Jackalope in Vail and the Eldorado Springs brewery, where they built a dedicated regional following with their high-energy live shows. Appearances at local festivals, including early slots at the , further showcased their innovative approach, emphasizing extended jams and audience interaction that established their reputation for infectious live performances. This grassroots development culminated in their first full-length release, the album Bridges to Bert, issued in 1993 on Whirled Beets Records, which captured their eclectic debut sound with tracks blending traditional covers and originals.

Rise to prominence

In 1996, Leftover Salmon signed a deal with , marking a significant step in their commercial ascent. The following year, they released , their major-label debut and breakthrough album, which showcased their energetic blend of bluegrass, rock, and Cajun elements and helped solidify their presence in the jam band scene. The band expanded their reach through extensive touring, including participation in the 1997 H.O.R.D.E. Festival, where they performed alongside jam band staples like and , fostering key associations within the genre. These festival appearances, part of a tour that included nearly 30 shows, amplified their visibility and drew in diverse audiences eager for their improvisational live energy. Subsequent releases further highlighted their evolving sound. In 1999, The Nashville Sessions arrived on , featuring collaborations with artists like and , emphasizing their roots in bluegrass and Americana. The band's self-titled album, recorded in April 2003 at Colorado Sound in , captured their final studio efforts before a later hiatus, though it was not released until 2004 on Compendia Records. A pivotal emotional moment came in 2002 with the death of founding banjoist Mark Vann from on March 4, at age 39, after a six-month battle with the disease; his passing deeply affected the band but inspired tributes and a commitment to continue. Throughout the late and early , Leftover Salmon's fanbase grew substantially through relentless live performances at festivals and venues, earning them the affectionate nickname "Polyethnic Cajun Slamgrass" for their genre-fusing style that satirized rigid categorizations while captivating crowds.

Hiatus and reunion

In late 2004, Leftover Salmon announced an indefinite hiatus effective at the end of the year, primarily due to burnout from relentless touring schedules that often exceeded 200 days annually, as well as internal strains exacerbated by the 2002 death of founding banjo player Mark Vann. The band felt trapped on a "treadmill of touring" with little flexibility to scale back, leading to exhaustion and a desire for personal recharge and creative exploration. Management challenges and lineup shifts, including banjoist Pikelny's departure to join John Cowan's group, further contributed to the decision, allowing members to pursue individual paths without the pressure of constant group commitments. During the hiatus, core members focused on solo endeavors that revitalized their musicianship. Mandolinist and vocalist Drew Emmitt launched the Emmitt-Nershi Band with String Cheese Incident guitarist Billy Nershi and developed his Drew Emmitt Band, releasing solo material and gaining fresh perspectives through these outlets. Guitarist and vocalist formed Great American Taxi, a rock-oriented project that debuted in 2007 and provided an outlet for his songwriting. Bassist Greg Garrison pursued a in music, while drummer explored jazz collaborations, enabling the group to return with enhanced skills and renewed enthusiasm. The band reunited for a limited run of shows in , starting with a performance at the and including sets at the High Sierra Music Festival in , and the All Good Festival in . This initial lineup featured founders and Drew Emmitt alongside bassist Greg Garrison, drummer , keyboardist Bill McKay, and banjoist , marking a tentative return after nearly three years apart. By late 2007, banjoist Andy Thorn, previously of the Emmitt-Nershi Band, joined as a permanent member, filling the void left by Mark Vann and injecting new energy into the ensemble. Early reunion efforts included a handful of festival and theater appearances in 2007 and 2008, such as shows at the Boulder Theater and Vail's Dobson Ice Arena, which helped rebuild audience momentum without immediate pressure for new recordings. These performances drew on the band's extensive catalog, fostering a sense of fun and reconnection amid challenges like adapting to a maturing scene and integrating Thorn's style to honor Vann's legacy. The 2002 live album Live, recorded at Auditoriums and dedicated to Vann, served as a bridge to this era, capturing the group's improvisational peak just before the hiatus.

Recent developments

Following their reunion in 2007, Leftover Salmon solidified their post-hiatus momentum with the release of the studio album Aquatic Hitchhiker in 2012 and High Country in 2014, both issued on their independent label LoS Records. These albums showcased the band's continued blend of bluegrass, rock, and jam elements, drawing from live performances and emphasizing improvisation. In 2016, the band marked their 25th anniversary with the live album 25, a compilation of performances spanning their career, recorded at various shows to celebrate their longevity. This release coincided with prominent festival appearances, including headlining slots at and their own SolShine , reinforcing their status in the jam band circuit. Ongoing festival engagements, such as the Fish Out of Water Festival in subsequent years, highlighted their enduring live energy. The band shifted to Compass Records for later releases, beginning with Something Higher in 2018, followed by Brand New Good Old Days in 2021 and Grass Roots in 2023. These albums explored fresh songwriting while maintaining their genre-fusing style, with Grass Roots featuring a notable collaboration with Billy Strings on the track "Blue Railroad Train." In May 2025, Leftover Salmon released Let's Party About It on Compass Records to commemorate their 35th anniversary, infusing the record with a celebratory tone through upbeat originals and innovative songwriting approaches that incorporated guest vocals, such as on "Twisted Pine." The band supported the album with extensive touring, including tribute performances at the : A Bluegrass Journey event at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame in March 2025, alongside artists like . Recent shows have featured evolving collaborations, notably multiple sit-ins with in 2024 and 2025, such as at in November 2025. Looking ahead, the group announced winter and spring 2026 tour dates, including stops in , , and , signaling sustained activity.

Musical style

Genre fusion

Leftover Salmon's core sound is characterized by a dynamic fusion of bluegrass, rock, , Cajun, and elements, which the band collectively terms "Polyethnic Cajun Slamgrass." This self-coined phrase encapsulates their eclectic, high-energy approach, satirizing rigid classifications while highlighting the integration of diverse musical traditions into a cohesive style. The result is a progressive bluegrass framework that incorporates rhythmic drive from rock and , alongside the syncopated grooves and accordion-like textures of Cajun and in songwriting and arrangements. Central to this genre fusion is the band's instrumentation, which juxtaposes traditional bluegrass tools like mandolin, banjo, and fiddle with electric guitar, drums, bass, and occasional keyboards or dobro. This setup enables jam-oriented structures that extend beyond conventional bluegrass rigidity, allowing for layered textures where acoustic strings interplay with amplified rock elements and percussive Zydeco flair. For instance, the fiddle and mandolin provide melodic anchors rooted in bluegrass and country, while drums—uncommon in purist bluegrass—infuse a propulsive, danceable energy drawn from Cajun rhythms. The band's emphasis on improvisational live performances further amplifies their genre-blending identity, often stretching songs far beyond their studio versions through extended jams that weave in spontaneous rock solos, shuffles, and Zydeco-inflected breakdowns. This approach fosters a high-energy, communal atmosphere, distinguishing Leftover Salmon as pioneers in the "jamgrass" movement. Over time, Leftover Salmon evolved from their acoustic bluegrass roots in the late to an electric format by the mid-1990s, incorporating amplified elements and broader improvisational scope while retaining core bluegrass instrumentation. This shift marked a pivotal , transforming traditional sounds into a more electrified, genre-crossing vehicle suited for festival stages and extended live sets.

Influences and evolution

Leftover Salmon's musical influences draw heavily from traditional bluegrass pioneers such as and Flatt & Scruggs, whose foundational styles shaped the band's early acoustic roots, while progressive acts like and inspired their boundary-pushing approach to the genre. Co-founders Drew Emmitt and also incorporated Cajun and elements, evident in Herman's pre-Salmon project Salmon Heads, which blended these with Calypso and , and drew from artists like to infuse rhythmic drive into their sound. Rock influences, including and , further expanded their palette, emphasizing improvisational energy and lyrical depth that aligned with the emerging ethos. In the 1990s, the band's sound centered on an acoustic bluegrass foundation laced with Cajun rhythms and rock edges, creating their signature "polyethnic Cajun slamgrass" through high-energy live performances at festivals. The Grateful Dead's impact fostered extended improvisations and a festival-oriented culture, positioning Leftover Salmon as pioneers in the jamgrass scene alongside acts like . Following their mid-2000s hiatus, the band continued to develop their sound through independent releases and live performances. By the 2020s, Leftover Salmon integrated broader Americana sensibilities, as seen in albums like Brand New Good Old Days (2021), which balanced nostalgic bluegrass with contemporary themes of resilience and community. This period marked a shift toward collaborative songwriting among core members, evident in the 2025 release Let's Party About It, where group contributions emphasized uplifting, connective narratives drawn from their diverse influences.

Personnel

Current members

The current lineup of Leftover Salmon, as of 2025, features a stable ensemble that has been together longer than any previous configuration in the band's history. serves as co-founder, handling vocals and guitar since the band's inception in 1989; he is renowned for his theatrical stage presence and ability to showcase diverse musical influences ranging from Cajun to bluegrass. Drew Emmitt, the other co-founder since 1989, contributes vocals and (along with occasional and ); as a primary songwriter and , he provides a steadying influence rooted in progressive bluegrass traditions. Greg Garrison has anchored the rhythm section on bass and vocals since joining in 2000, delivering a rock-solid foundation adept across bluegrass, rock, and genres. Andy Thorn brings banjo and vocals to the group since 2007, infusing powerful, driving picking that propels the band's energetic sound forward. Alwyn Robinson joined in 2013 on drums, percussion, and vocals, offering dexterous support that seamlessly navigates the band's shifts between bluegrass tempos and rock grooves. Jay Starling, who became an official member in 2022, adds keyboards, , and vocals, enhancing the band's texture with his versatile bluegrass and fusion background. This lineup contributed to the band's 35th-anniversary Let's Party About It, released in May 2025, and continues to drive their extensive touring schedule, including headline performances at festivals and theaters throughout the year.

Former members

Dave Dorian played drums from 1989 to 1990, contributing to the band's formative performance as part of the Salmon Heads. Gerry Cavagnaro handled , , and harmonica from 1989 to 1990, bringing Cajun and calypso elements from his time in the Salmon Heads. Mark Vann was a founding member of Leftover Salmon, serving as banjoist and vocalist from the band's inception in 1989 until his death in 2002. His contributions shaped the band's early "polyethnic Cajun slamgrass" sound, blending bluegrass with rock and Cajun elements on albums like Bridges to Bert (1993) and (1997), where he provided driving banjo rhythms and harmonies. Vann's passing from cancer at age 39 was a profound loss, but he had expressed a wish for the band to continue without him. Glenn Keefe was the original from 1989 to 1992, contributing to the band's formation from the Left Hand String Band and early gigs that defined its roots. His foundational role helped establish the group's bluegrass core before Tye North took over. Josey Wales served as drummer from 1990 to 1992, supporting the band's early solidification and debut album Bridges to Bert. Tye North played bass from 1993 to 2000, providing rhythmic support during the band's rise to prominence and tours. Joe Jogerst contributed keyboards and in the early 1990s, adding eclectic textures to initial performances. Noam Pikelny joined as ist in 2002 to fill the role vacated by Vann, remaining until 2004 and contributing to the band's late active-period recordings, including the self-titled Leftover Salmon (2004). His precise, progressive style helped maintain the group's jamgrass energy during tours and festivals, bridging the transition before the band's hiatus. , known as "Fizzle," played drums from 1997 to 2000, bringing improvisational flair from his Aquarium Rescue Unit background to enhance the band's rhythmic drive on projects like The Nashville Sessions (1998). He departed after the band's September 2000 shows to focus on family time with his new wife and child, as well as recording and teaching pursuits. Bill McKay served on keyboards and vocals from 2000 to 2011, infusing and Hammond B-3 organ textures that expanded the band's genre fusion, notably on live albums like Leftover Salmon (2004) and studio work such as High Country (2005). He left in 2011 to pursue freelance opportunities and a career closer to home in . Jose Martinez handled drums from 2000 to 2013, providing steady propulsion through the band's reunion era and albums like Something Higher (2018), succeeding Sipe in the rhythm section. He retired from touring in 2013 to settle in and focus on local projects. Erik Deutsch played keyboards from 2016 to 2020, adding modern jazz and rock influences to post-reunion tours and the album Grass Roots (2017), performing over 400 shows during his tenure. He departed in early 2020 to join the touring band for The Chicks (formerly Dixie Chicks).

Timeline

Leftover Salmon formed on New Year's Eve 1989 in Boulder, Colorado, when members of the Salmon Heads (Vince Herman on guitar and vocals, Dave Dorian on drums) merged with players from the Left Hand String Band (Drew Emmitt on mandolin and vocals, Glenn Keefe on bass, and Mark Vann on banjo), along with keyboardist and accordionist Joe Jogerst, for a one-off performance that evolved into the band's debut show. Between 1990 and 1992, the band solidified its early sound with the addition of drummer Josey Wales and further integration of Vann as a core member, while Dorian departed in 1990 and Keefe left in 1992; this period saw the release of their debut Bridges to Bert, capturing the initial fusion of bluegrass and jam elements. (Note: Using for dates only, as per primary confirmation) From 1997 to 2000, drummer joined in July 1997, replacing earlier percussionists and bringing a dynamic improvisational style, while Tye North, who had joined around 1993, departed in late 2000; keyboardist and vocalist Bill McKay was added in 2000 to expand the band's rhythmic and harmonic palette. In 2002, founding banjoist Mark Vann passed away on March 4 from at age 39, prompting a period of reflection for the band; joined later that year on , helping to stabilize the lineup amid grief. The band entered an indefinite hiatus in 2004 following internal tensions and Vann's death, though partial reunions occurred with rotating guest musicians like Matt Flinner and Tony Furtado on during sporadic performances from 2005 to 2006. Post-hiatus, Leftover Salmon officially reunited in 2007 with their first full show billed under the name on July 8, and banjoist Andy Thorn joined that year, infusing fresh energy into the core of Herman and Emmitt. In 2013, drummer Alwyn Robinson replaced longtime member Jose Martinez, who relocated to , bringing a rock-infused precision to the rhythm section. Between 2020 and 2022, keyboardist Erik Deutsch departed in March 2020 to join ' touring band, and multi-instrumentalist Jay Starling was welcomed as an official member in May 2022 on keyboards and , enhancing the band's versatility. By 2025, the lineup of Herman, Emmitt, Thorn, bassist Greg Garrison, Robinson, and Starling achieved its longest stability in band history, supporting the release of their new studio album Let's Party About It on May 9 and an extensive tour schedule marking their 35th anniversary.

Discography

Studio albums

Leftover Salmon's studio discography spans over three decades, beginning with their independent debut and progressing through major label releases and self-released efforts post-reunion, emphasizing their blend of bluegrass, rock, and jam elements in composed recordings.
TitleYearLabelNotes
Bridges to Bert1993Whirled Beets RecordsDebut studio album, produced by Charles Sawtelle and recorded at Colorado Sound Recording Studios.
Euphoria1997Hollywood RecordsMajor label breakthrough, produced by Justin Niebank with a focus on polished jamgrass arrangements.
The Nashville Sessions1999Hollywood RecordsCountry-infused collection recorded in Nashville studios, produced by Randy Scruggs featuring guest artists like Waylon Jennings.
O'Cracker Where Art Thou?2003Pitch-a-Tent RecordsCollaborative album with Cracker members David Lowery and Johnny Hickman, featuring bluegrass versions of Cracker songs.
Leftover Salmon2004CompendiaSelf-titled release preceding the band's hiatus, produced by Bill Payne of Little Feat.
Aquatic Hitchhiker2012LoS RecordsPost-reunion effort with an aquatic theme in songwriting.
High Country2014LoS RecordsBluegrass-leaning album highlighting acoustic instrumentation, produced by Steve Berlin of Los Lobos.
Something Higher2018LoS RecordsJam-oriented tracks recorded analog at The Barn studio, produced by Steve Berlin.
Brand New Good Old Days2021Compass RecordsNostalgic originals reflecting on the band's history, produced by band member Greg Garrison.
Grass Roots2023Compass RecordsTribute covers of bluegrass and Americana influences, produced by Greg Garrison.
Let's Party About It2025Compass RecordsEleventh studio album marking the band's 35th anniversary, celebratory collection of new originals produced by Matt Coles.

Live albums

Leftover Salmon's live albums exemplify the band's roots in the jam band scene, where recordings serve to preserve the spontaneous, improvisational energy of their performances, often extending songs into lengthy jams that blend bluegrass, rock, Cajun, and elements. These releases highlight the group's ability to thrive in front of audiences, capturing the "polyethnic Cajun slamgrass" style they pioneered, with no overdubs to maintain authenticity. The band's debut live recording, Ask the Fish, was released in 1995 on Bert Records (with a 2001 reissue) as a drawn from shows at the Fox Theatre in , on October 28 and 29, 1994. Spanning 15 tracks over more than an hour, it showcases early lineup dynamics, including fiery renditions of "Carnival Time" and "Rueben's Train," emphasizing the raw, unpolished excitement of their origins. In 2002, Compass Records issued Live, a single-disc collection recorded during the band's peak touring period in at the Fillmore Auditoriums in and . Featuring nine tracks like the extended "Steam Powered Aereoplane" and "Out in the Woods," the album underscores Leftover Salmon's prowess in , weaving diverse influences into high-energy sets that captivated enthusiasts. Marking their 25th anniversary, '25' appeared in 2016 on LoS Records as a triple-disc set compiling 25 tracks from 2014–2015 performances, many sourced from festivals that defined the band's career. Highlights include expansive takes on "Gulf of Mexico" and an extended "Highway Song," illustrating how live recordings in the jam tradition allow for creative evolution and communal celebration.

Video releases

Leftover Salmon has released a limited number of official video productions, primarily in the form of DVDs that capture their live performances and band history. These releases highlight the group's energetic stage presence and fusion of bluegrass, rock, and jam elements, serving as key visual documents for fans. The band's first major video release was the documentary Years in Your Ears: A Story of Leftover Salmon, directed by Eric Peter Abramson and issued on November 29, 2006. This 90-minute film chronicles the band's formation in 1989, their rise in the jam band scene, and influences from artists like Bill Monroe and the Grateful Dead, incorporating interviews with members such as Vince Herman and Drew Emmitt, as well as peers including Sam Bush and members of Yonder Mountain String Band. It includes ten live performance clips of tracks like "Pasta," "Carnival Time," and "Paint It Black," filmed across various venues to showcase their "polyethnic Cajun slamgrass" style. Produced by Years in Your Ears LLC and distributed by CageFree, the DVD received praise for its honest portrayal of the band's evolution without self-aggrandizement. In 2010, Leftover Salmon issued their inaugural concert DVD, Celebrating 20 Years: Live Twice in a , recorded during back-to-back shows on December 30 and 31, 2009, at the Theater in . Released on October 19, 2010, by Riffactory Records, the high-definition production features a 20-track setlist spanning their career, including covers like "" with guest John Bell of and originals such as "" and "Troubled Times." The footage captures the band's improvisational jams and audience interaction in a 150-minute runtime, bundled with an download of the audio. This release marked a milestone for their 20th anniversary and was noted for its crisp visuals and representation of their post-reformation lineup.
TitleTypeRelease DateLabelKey Features
Years in Your Ears: A Story of Leftover SalmonDocumentary DVDNovember 29, 2006CageFree / Years in Your Ears LLCInterviews, historical footage, 10 live tracks; runtime ~90 minutes
Celebrating 20 Years: Live Twice in a Concert DVDOctober 19, 2010Riffactory Records20-track live set from Theater NYE 2009; HD video, audio included; runtime ~150 minutes
No additional full-length video releases have been officially documented beyond these two, though the band has shared promotional music videos and live clips on platforms like for singles from albums such as (2023).

References

  1. https://www.leftoversalmon.com/band
  2. https://cmhof.org/inductees/leftover-salmon/
  3. https://gatheringofthevibes.com/artist/leftover-salmon/
  4. https://www.goldminemag.com/columns/natural-funk-projekt/leftover-salmon-make-bluegrass-sound-contemporary-and-cool/
  5. https://303magazine.com/2025/05/profile-leftover-salmons-drew-emmitt-and-andy-thorn-talk-35-years-of-jammin-exclusive-interview/
  6. https://nysmusic.com/2025/07/30/strings-scales-salmon-tales-an-interview-with-leftover-salmons-andy-thorn/
  7. https://archives.boulderweekly.com/entertainment/leftovers-legacy/
  8. https://colomusic.org/profile/leftover-salmon/
  9. https://www.allmusic.com/album/bridges-to-bert-mw0000092569
  10. https://www.discogs.com/release/9486723-Leftover-Salmon-Bridges-To-Bert
  11. https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/lifestyle/1999/11/19/spotlight/218350e6-d52c-41e4-b841-6600403cef7d/
  12. https://www.deseret.com/1997/3/21/19301698/leftover-salmon-s-latest-is-as-title-says-euphoria/
  13. https://www.nytimes.com/1997/08/14/arts/struggling-to-wake-up-a-lethargic-tour-crowd.html
  14. https://jambase.com/article/leftover-salmon-celebrating-20-years-part-2
  15. https://open.spotify.com/album/1eTrENaoBe62McAimT927N
  16. https://www.leftoversalmon.com/leftover-salmon-self-titled
  17. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/leftover-salmons-mark-vann-dies-76565/
  18. https://news.pollstar.com/2012/04/19/fresh-leftover-salmon/
  19. https://relix.com/articles/detail/leftover-salmon-putting-down-roots/
  20. https://jambands.com/features/2008/11/23/vince-herman-honors-an-old-friend/
  21. https://bluegrasstoday.com/leftover-salmon-reunion-this-summer/
  22. https://www.guitarworld.com/features/interview-leftover-salmon-guitarist-vince-herman-discusses-their-new-album-aquatic-hitchhiker
  23. https://store.compassrecords.com/products/leftover-salmon-live
  24. https://www.leftoversalmon.com/discography
  25. https://www.discogs.com/release/12697022-Leftover-Salmon-Something-Higher
  26. https://relix.com/reviews/detail/leftover_salmon_something_higher/
  27. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JN0SkZ7K5OU
  28. https://www.jambase.com/article/leftover-salmon-announces-2016-solshine-music-festival-lineup
  29. https://liveforlivemusic.com/news/leftover-salmon-fall-2018/
  30. https://store.compassrecords.com/products/lets-party-about-it
  31. https://www.albumoftheyear.org/artist/164356-leftover-salmon/
  32. https://milestonecollective.com/headlines/leftover-salmon-and-billy-strings-team-up-on-new-single-blue-railroad-train-out-today/
  33. https://leftoversalmon.bandcamp.com/album/lets-party-about-it
  34. https://relix.com/news/detail/listen-leftover-salmon-celebrate-35th-anniversary-with-new-lp-lets-party-about-it/
  35. https://www.jambase.com/article/leftover-salmon-travelin-mccourys-jerry-garcia-bluegrass-music-museum-2025
  36. https://liveforlivemusic.com/news/billy-strings-leftover-salmon-cory-henry-cris-jacobs-baltimore-11-1-25/
  37. https://jambands.com/news/2025/10/15/leftover-salmon-outline-winter-and-spring-2026-tour-dates/
  38. https://www.augustachronicle.com/story/entertainment/events/2014/05/21/leftover-salmon-jams-polyethnic-cajun-slamgrass/14411128007/
  39. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/leftover-salmon-mn0000320863
  40. https://glidemagazine.com/294229/leftover-salmon-provides-exclusive-track-by-track-on-grass-roots/
  41. https://www.leftoversalmon.com/20th-year-anniversary
  42. https://glidemagazine.com/256686/drew-emmitt-of-leftover-salmon-talks-bands-evolution-grateful-dead-billy-strings-more-interview/
  43. https://thebluegrasssituation.com/read/leftover-salmons-sage-advice-lets-party-about-it/
  44. https://jambands.com/reviews/cds/2002/04/22/down-home-live-buckwheat-zydeco/
  45. https://www.altoonamirror.com/life/area-life/2014/07/leftover-salmon-boz-scaggs-headline-flood-city-music-fest/
  46. https://www.jambase.com/article/jay-starling-leftover-salmon-member
  47. https://jambands.com/news/2025/05/09/listen-leftover-salmon-celebrate-35th-anniversary-with-new-lp-lets-party-about-it/
  48. https://www.crestedbuttenews.com/2019/12/thirty-years-of-leftover/
  49. https://news.pollstar.com/2002/03/06/mark-vann-dies/
  50. https://www.durangoherald.com/articles/glenn-keefe-bluegrass-history-lesson/
  51. https://jambands.com/features/2002/04/23/tye-north-espouses-a-theory-of-everything/
  52. https://relix.com/articles/detail/the-core-leftover-salmon/
  53. https://bluegrasstoday.com/there-is-nothing-like-noam-alone/
  54. https://www.summitdaily.com/news/leftover-salmon-begins-whole-new-era/
  55. https://www.leftoversalmon.com/the-nashville-sessions
  56. https://jambands.com/the-loop/2011/01/26/jambands-com-news-in-review-2000/2/
  57. https://www.billmckaymusic.com/bio
  58. https://www.westword.com/music/bill-mckay-keeps-on-playing-9549274/
  59. https://www.jambase.com/article/leftover-salmon-welcomes-new-drummer-for-live-at-jambase-hq
  60. https://www.gratefulweb.com/articles/leftover-salmon-welcomes-new-drummer-alwyn-robinson/
  61. http://hammerandstring.com/bio
  62. https://jambands.com/news/2020/03/13/erik-deutsch-departs-leftover-salmon-to-join-dixie-chicks-touring-band/
  63. http://www.musicmarauders.com/2011/09/leftover-salmon-band-that-still-shines.html
  64. https://www.discogs.com/release/22336261-Leftover-Salmon-Bridges-To-Bert
  65. https://jambands.com/news/2005/09/26/vince-herman-and-drew-emmitt-play-salmon-with-jeff-sipe-and-greg-garrison/
  66. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/leftover-salmon-going-on-hiatus-65216/
  67. https://www.npr.org/2016/10/05/496692193/leftover-salmon-on-mountain-stage
  68. https://jambands.com/reviews/shows/2013/12/15/leftover-salmon-boulder-theater-boulder-co-11-29-30/
  69. https://liveforlivemusic.com/news/leftover-salmon-new-member-jay-starling/
  70. https://liveforlivemusic.com/news/leftover-salmon-new-album-lets-party-about-it-big-wheel/
  71. https://www.discogs.com/artist/1349779-Leftover-Salmon
  72. https://www.discogs.com/release/7250216-Leftover-Salmon-Bridges-To-Bert
  73. http://www.deaddisc.com/disc/Bridges_To_Bert.htm
  74. https://www.discogs.com/release/4081368-Leftover-Salmon-Euphoria
  75. https://www.aspentimes.com/news/leftover-salmon-comes-back-round/
  76. https://rateyourmusic.com/release/album/leftover-salmon/the-nashville-sessions/
  77. https://www.leftoversalmon.com/ocracker-where-art-thou
  78. https://www.allmusic.com/album/o-cracker-where-art-thou--mw0000596225
  79. https://www.discogs.com/release/2706705-Leftover-Salmon-Leftover-Salmon
  80. http://www.musicbox-online.com/ls-ls.html
  81. https://www.discogs.com/release/4114238-Leftover-Salmon-Aquatic-Hitchhiker
  82. https://www.discogs.com/release/7935267-Leftover-Salmon-High-Country
  83. https://relix.com/reviews/detail/leftover_salmon_high_country/
  84. https://americanahighways.org/2018/05/03/review-leftover-salmons-something-higher-is-something-for-everyone/
  85. https://www.discogs.com/release/18594904-Leftover-Salmon-Brand-New-Good-Old-Days
  86. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FUVxpvfpJsk
  87. https://www.offbeat.com/music/leftover-salmon-grass-roots-compass-records/
  88. https://holler.country/reviews/album-review/leftover-salmon-grass-roots/
  89. https://music.apple.com/us/song/lets-party-about-it/1806155357
  90. https://www.leftoversalmon.com/ask-the-fish
  91. https://www.allmusic.com/album/ask-the-fish-mw0000094542
  92. https://www.discogs.com/master/1005777-Leftover-Salmon-Ask-The-Fish-Live
  93. https://www.amazon.com/Live-LEFTOVER-SALMON/dp/B0000657W3
  94. https://www.discogs.com/release/4040763-Leftover-Salmon-Live
  95. https://wvpublic.org/leftover-salmon-to-appear-on-mountain-stage/
  96. https://www.allmusic.com/album/years-in-your-ears-a-story-of-leftover-salmon-mw0001774253
  97. https://www.discogs.com/release/10325920-Leftover-Salmon-Celebrating-20-Years-Live-Twice-in-a-Blue-Moon
  98. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1455272/
  99. https://jambands.com/news/2006/04/04/leftover-salmon-years-in-your-ears/
  100. https://musicmillennium.com/UPC/789577633629
  101. https://www.gratefulweb.com/articles/leftover-salmon-twice-in-a-blue-moon-dvd-review/
  102. https://ibiblio.org/hillwilliam/BGdiscography/?v=fullrecord&albumid=19637
  103. https://www.youtube.com/user/Salmonmusic
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