National Sawdust presents LPR Presents: Rising Appalachia
National Sawdust80 North 6th Street, New York 11249
National Sawdust presents LPR Presents: Rising Appalachia, the internationally touring folk ensemble led by sisters Leah Song and Chloe Smith. Their Brooklyn performance draws on a sound the band describes as a meeting point for Southern folk traditions, New Orleans swamp culture and Atlanta street spirit, with Appalachian traditions, harmony singing, New Orleans soul and global roots music in the mix.
Founded in Georgia by Leah and Chloe Smith, Rising Appalachia is known for seamless harmonies, songcatching and storytelling, alongside grassroots activism and community-centered performance. On the group’s 2021 album, its expanded ensemble included vocals, banjo, bodhrán, fiddle, percussion, guitar, double bass, cello, ngoni and balafon. Guests on Leylines included Ani DiFranco, Trevor Hall and trumpeter Maurice Turner, with Joe Henry credited as a producer. Spirituality+Health called the music a “powerful blending of folk, blues, global percussion, and social justice.” Americana UK praised its “broad palette,” while Country Standard Time highlighted the sisters’ “sweet harmonies” and African sounds anchored by ngoni and djembe.
National Sawdust offers a unique evening where music and innovation meet in a thoughtfully designed space that once housed a sawdust factory. The main hall, seating up to 185 guests with flexible arrangements, features a cutting-edge Meyer spatial sound system that immerses you in every note. The room’s raw brick walls and crystalline architectural elements create a striking contrast, enhancing the focus on the performance. A full bar is available, inviting you to enjoy a drink while fully engaging with the diverse range of genres presented by both emerging and established artists. Shows are ticketed, and purchasing ahead is recommended to secure your spot in this intimate yet spacious venue. The experience is centered on listening and discovery, making for an evening that feels both special and thoughtfully curated.