Mando maestro Andrew Collins finds himself – through no actual fault of his own – at the epicentre of Canada’s acoustic/roots music scene. He didn’t invent it – but he’s certainly been a major contributor, having co-founded seriously noteworthy Canadian bands like the Creaking Tree String Quartet, the Foggy Hogtown Boys and, more recently, his namesake Trio. That’s not to mention the fact that this prolific, robust performer – comfortable on mandolin, fiddle, guitar, mandola and mandocello – composes, produces, arranges, writes and teaches across multiple genres, including an electrifying fusion of folk, acoustic roots, newgrass and even a dash of chamber where warranted :-)

As Collins gathers up innumerable JUNO nominations (5) and Canadian Folk Music Awards (7) won by his various ensembles, he’s zeroing in on the work he does with Trio-mates: fellow string guru Adam Shier, whose versatility shines through on guitar and mandolin, and in-the-pocket James McEleney holding it down on the bass, mandocello and vocals.

Showcasing a dizzying number of styles and instruments on stage, Collins and Co. appear to live by the old adage, “idle hands are the devil’s workshop”, likely keeping them just ahead of his grasp. Bending and blending genres, these musical shape shifters land somewhere between the re-imagined worlds of Béla Fleck, Newgrass invader David Grisman and the legendary Yo Yo Ma!

The Trio recently released their aptly titled album, “The Rule of Three”, drawing inspiration from the literary principle that a trio of elements is more impactful, intricately weaving together visual and literary art’s “rule of thirds. The album was, serendipitously enough, nominated for 3 Canadian Folk Music Awards! In just a matter of weeks, they’re poised to release their next album, “Retro”, a treasure trove of Andrew’s signature tracks over the years with fresh arrangements and spirited trio interplay. From blazing bluegrass to jazzy waltzes and classical reinterpretations, Retro shows that great music evolves through honoring its roots.