Ernest Troost introduces himself by saying: “If the Carter Family, Robbie Robertson and Alfred Hitchcock had written songs together, they might sound like this.” It is an apt description that hints at the spirit of his folk-blues tunes — and Troost himself. He won the Kerrville (Texas) Folk Festival’s “New Folk” songwriting contest in 2009, as well as several Emmy Award nominations and one Emmy Award for score composition. Ernest is appearing with his brand new CD “O Love.” (www.ernesttroost.com)

Shaun Cromwell’s songs weave tales of intrigue and epics of sorrow. Drawing heavily from the pantheon of American roots traditions, he infuses the music with contemporary influences such as Bill Frisell, Lowell George & Tom Waits. He has been chosen a finalist in multiple songwriting contests and his album "Folk-Worn Prose," reached #7 on the Folk Radio Charts and received airplay on XM radio. (www.shauncromwell.com)