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The Wiyos are enjoying some exciting news. Within the span of a few months, they have received an invitation to join the Bob Dylan/Willie Nelson/John Mellencamp summer tour (at the personal request of Dylan), have been featured in a BBC documentary (Folk America – Hollerers, Stompers and Old-Time Ramblers) and have released their fourth full-length album entitled Broken Land Bell. Now after six years of relentless touring (200-plus dates a year) in multiple countries, all independent of a record label or manager, The Wiyos have suddenly emerged as one of the hallmark groups in the resurgence of traditional American music.

The Wiyos got their start in 2003 performing in the streets and parks of New York and New Orleans, captivating children, college students, working folks and grandparents with their unique brand of musical and visual performance that follows in the tradition of medicine show buskers and vaudeville acts. Their live show still incorporates some elements of physical comedy and hokum-themed songs, as they have learned that audiences appreciate good belly laughs along with displays of instrumental skill. Much like the well-known artistic inclinations of Dylan and Nelson, The Wiyos’ omnivorous stylistic tastes and passion for early 20^th century American musical idioms make them a natural complement to the big marquee summer tour. And with the release of Broken Land Bell, they have carved out a singular niche as their hook-filled original songwriting equally embraces old-time, rural American folk music and modern pop, hip-hop and experimental sound design.

To learn more about The Wiyos and their summer tour, please go to www.thewiyos.com.