ABOUT BACKYARD BIRDS

 

Backyard Birds performs a fresh blend of great, overlooked songs in a wide variety of genres, ranging from Americana, classic country, pop and R&B to a sprinkling of jazz standards and originals. The group is known for the three women’s close-knit harmonies (Linda Baker, vocals and acoustic electric guitar; Jean Catino, vocals and tenor ukulele; and June Coha, vocals and soprano ukulele), Linc Russin’s cool mandolin playing, and Larry Prather’s expressive bass lines, as well as their delightfully surprising choices of eclectic and little-known material.

 

The group’s 2020 album, Wildlife, recorded in Santa Cruz, CA, showcases their approach to lesser-known but cover-worthy songs. Wildlife features music written by country songwriter, singer and guitarist Carlene Carter, the Swedish sister folk duo First Aid Kit, country and roots songwriters Buddy and Julie Miller, Irish rockabilly/soul singer and songwriter Imelda May, classic country songwriters Ray Edenton and Don Winters, and rock and roll songwriter and guitarist Neil Young.

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Since getting together in 2017, the Birds have performed at Michael's on Main, Felton Music Hall, Aromas Grange, Chaminade Resort and Spa, Davenport Roadhouse, The Food Lounge, and Bocci’s Cellar, among other venues in Santa Cruz County.