Ponderosa

With a classic whiskey-soaked roadhouse sound, Atlanta-based Ponderosa began when singer and guitarist Kalen Nash met guitarist Kris Sampson at Atlanta’s Nickel & Dime recording studio, where Sampson was serving as head engineer. The two discovered a musical affinity and began tracking with area players J.T. Hall (bass and vocals), John Dance (organ and keyboards), and Darren Dodd (drums and vocals), quickly generating a raw but well-crafted version of Southern roots rock. Rosa (as the band is known to fans) was born. An independently released EP called Moonlight Revival appeared in 2010, but after a series of impassioned performances as the opening act for the Whigs, Shooter Jennings, Old 97's and others, and impressive appearances at the Austin City Limits and Voodoo Music festivals, the group was signed to New West Records. Working with producer Joe Chiccarelli, Rosa released their full-length debut, also called Moonlight Revival, on New West Records early in 2011, following it with the Dave Fridman-produced Pool Party a year later in 2012, which saw the band completely reverse its field and move in a anthemic psychedelic dream pop direction.