Andy Tolins with Steve and Kristi Branstetter

Andy Tolins is a guitarist, bassist and vocalist, who also plays dobro, mandolin and table steel. He is an accomplished songwriter, bandleader, and producer; winner of Billboard Magazine’s 1999 Best Unsigned Band award for High Water by the Triple A Blues Band.

Andy has been performing full time in Central Pennsylvania and beyond for close to 30 years. His focus has been live American roots music, fronting his own blues and bluegrass bands every week (Wednesday and Fridays) at Zeno’s Pub in State College since 1991. He has been lead guitarist and contributing vocalist in the classic rock band, The Screaming Ducks, since 1988. He collaborates often with keyboardist, John “JT” Thompson, performing as Thompson and Tolins on the 1st Sunday of each month at Webster’s Cafe and Bookstore in State College.

Before forming his bluegrass group Haystack Lightnin’, he performed for many years with his late wife, Susan Kemper, in their band Red Apple Juice.

Andy loves performing live – building on the audience’s energy and vibe, and is always learning to keep it fresh and spontaneous for each performance.

Kristie and Steve are the creative forces behind Kristie Jean and Her Ne’er Do Wells, the popular traditional country band.

Andy, Kristie, and Steve have combined their affection for classic county, along with blues and other shared favorites, for a First Night performance featuring songs by Buck Owens, Don Gibson, Mose Allison, Percy Mayfield, not to mention some original tunes.

  A First Night Button is required for this performance.