Watch Mountain Grass Unit’s Paste Session from the Northlands Festival

On a sunny June weekend, Paste Studio “On the Road” set up shop at the Northlands Festival in Swanzey, New Hampshire, to capture a new round of Maple Barn Sessions. Artists were invited to perform in a stripped-down setting inside a small barn tucked just beyond the hustle of the main stages. Historically used for maple syrup production, the barn was thoughtfully decorated for the occasion, with plush bears, neon lights, vintage syrup memorabilia, and a well-worn cutout of Danny DeVito adorned the space. The exciting, youthful energy of Mountain Grass Unit mirrored the charm of the barn–rooted in history and tradition, yet buzzing with fresh energy and life. Their music draws from classic bluegrass and folk–the group respects the genre’s roots while adding a contemporary touch.

Mountain Grass Unit Full Session

The group features Drury Anderson on lead vocals and mandolin, Luke Black on guitar, Josiah Nelson on fiddle, and Sam Wilson on the bass. They launched their session with an original song from their first album, called “Shoot the Gun”. Within 30 seconds of hearing the group play, I came away with the rare impression that each member of this group could hold their own as frontmen. Talented and equally matched both vocally and instrumentally, each player had their own way of commanding attention, without crowding each other or getting in the way of the group dynamic. The song was exciting and fast, and even if I had tried, I don’t think I could have taken my attention away from the lightning-fast, tasteful skills of the pickers.

To round out and finish the session, the group leans into a dynamic medley, mixing an original and a cover. They start with a playful original tune, titled “Masterson’s,” an instrumental which served as the perfect intro to John Hartford’s “I’m Still Here.” The seamless transition between songs was reminiscent of what you might hear in a jam band setlist, a la Phish or the Grateful Dead, and underscores Mountain Grass Unit’s ability to infuse bluegrass music with their own youthful energy.

One thing that stood out to me during my time at the Northlands festival was how often Mountain Grass Unit came up in conversation. No matter where I wandered, it seemed like someone was buzzing about their set. The excitement around this group is real—and after hearing them play, it’s easy to understand why. Thanks again to all at the Northlands festival who helped these sessions happen, and stay tuned for the rest of the series!