The Big Sky Stringband is a Midwest regional touring folk-rock band that performs a broad collection of original American roots music, traditional songs, and unique covers. Founded by Jay Stanek (guitarist/vocals) and Chris Meier (mandolin/vocals), the band builds a new generation of folk-rock and jam music around its core strengths: solid songwriting and textured grooves. With Brandon Cochran (lead guitar/vocals), Dick Mallory (fretless bass), and Zach Malasto (drums), the Chicago-based quintet stands on the shoulders of Americana music with only the big sky above.

Big Sky to Play Primetime, July 4th Set at Taste of Chicago
Big Sky Stringband is set to perform on July 4th at the 2009 Taste of Chicago. The band will play from 5:15-6:30 on the Taste Stage. Prior to Big Sky's set, The Hideout will provide what is sure to be a thrilling Independent Independence Day Extravaganza: Songs for Presidents.

Big Sky's "Turning of the Wheel" available on iTunes & CDBaby
The band's a 6-song EP is available through iTunes, myTracks, CDBaby, or at live shows. The collection includes concert staples Slow Train, Eric Heywood, Dialog with John, Sherman Hemsley, Get Down Boys, and Rich Koz.

Jay Stanek Releases Debut Solo Album
Big Sky's very own Jay Stanek has released a full-length solo album. The album features 13 original songs with Stanek on vocals, acoustic & electric guitars, piano, bass, and banjo. He's joined on several songs by current and former members of Big Sky Stringband, and many of 1140's songs have found their way into the Big Sky live repertoire. The album is available for purchase or download at CDBaby, iTunes, or at live shows.

Big Sky featured on Chicago Acoustic Underground
Big Sky Stringband stopped in at the Chicago Acoustic Underground studio to record 4 songs for a podcast and we all got a bit carried away and an hour later we had one heck of a live, in-studio performance to share with y'all! You can download it in its entirety from the CAU Web site.