The Waskasoo Bluegrass Music Society launches into the New Year with the tremendous sounds of Chris Jones & the Night Drivers.

Set for Jan. 29 at the Elks Lodge, the performance kicks off at 7:30 p.m.

Jones is no newcomer to the spotlight – his resume includes gigs with some of the world’s most respected musicians including The Chieftains, Earl Scruggs, the McCarters and Weary Hearts.

But his talents go beyond performing. He was also named Broadcaster of the Year at the International Bluegrass Music Association’s 2007 awards for his work as a DJ on Sirius Satellite Radio’s bluegrass channel. That same night he took home a co-writer’s Song of the Year trophy for Fork in the Road by the Infamous Stringdusters.

The band’s latest disc, Cloud of Dust, is packed with tunes rich in traditional and contemporary sensibilities highlighted by Jones’ enjoyable approach to interpreting the songs vocally. The title track charges along at an fun, infectious pace, again showcasing the band’s ability to cleverly mesh their spectrum of natural abilities.

Things also kick off with The Love She Left Behind – a charming tapestry of acoustic authenticity and harmonies.

Meanwhile, with six CDs to his credit, including his debut with Union Station forming his band, Jones has established himself as one of the finest writers and most identifiable voices within bluegrass.

Waskasoo Bluegrass Music Society’s 11th bluegrass concert season continues March 26 when The Special Consensus travel to the Elks Hall and May 1 with bluegrass legends The Lost & Found.

Tickets ($25) are available at the Red Deer Book Exchange, Parkland Mall service desk, 53rd Street Music and the Key Hole. They’re also available at Jackson’s Pharmasave in Innisfail and at Popow’s Auto Body in Lacombe.

mweber@reddeerexpress.com