The stories of the IBMA award show were two standout surprises, some nice stories, and the amazing power shown by Dailey & Vincent who walked off with six awards to the enthusiastic cheers of the audience. Over at The Bluegrass Blog they raise the issue of whether six awards constitute a sweep. Dailey & Vincent took home enough hardward to decorate the mantles of every member of the band. That's a pretty strong performance.

[More text and images at Ted Lehmann's Bluegrass, Books, and Brainstorms.]

The first four days of the annual IBMA conference in Nashville is all about the business side of bluegrass, but  the weekend is all for the fans. The IBMA announced the lineup for its 2008 Bluegrass Fan Fest, running October 3-5 at the Nashville Convention Center—and it offers a fabulous assembly of talent for the serious fan.

With more than 60 acts appearing on two stages, plus a packed schedule of workshops, fiddle championship and exhibit floor, there are more great performers than can be listed here. Included are many of the top traditional acts in the business, but for my money, the focus is on younger breakthough acts such as Cadillac Sky, Grasstowne, Sierra Hull & HIghway 111, The Infamous Stringdusters, The Freight Hoppers, The Circuit Riders, The Greencards and others. Some big names from the country music mainstream will also be on view, including Vince Gill, Kathy Mattea and Michael Martin Murphy.  Read more »