Rock Hearts

About this event

6pm, 6:30pm adv $20 dos $25 Recently named an official case band by IBMA for the 2026 World of Bluegrass event in Chattanooga, TN, Rock Hearts was formed in 2013 and unites five accomplished musicians from Southern New England who share a deep passion for bluegrass, classic country, and reimagining songs from other genres through a bluegrass lens. Their original music honors traditional bluegrass roots while embracing a contemporary spirit, creating a sound that feels both timeless and fresh. Since releasing their acclaimed debut album, Starry Southern Nights (2020), Rock Hearts has enjoyed significant success on national bluegrass charts and has become a favorite at festivals throughout the Northeast and beyond. In 2021, the band was selected as one of only 20 Official case Bands at the International Bluegrass Music Association's World of Bluegrass in Raleigh, North Carolina. Their music videos have accumulated more than 700,000 views, and the band has been featured in leading publications including Bluegrass Unlimited, Bluegrass Today, and The Bluegrass Situation. In June 2021, Rock Hearts signed with The 615 Hideaway Records, led by Sammy Passamano III. Their 2023 release, Wanderlust, featured guest appearances from Michael Cleveland, Dale Ann Bradley, and Jonathan Edwards. The title track, written by Alex MacLeod and featuring Cleveland, along with the gospel duet “Driving Nails” featuring Bradley, continues to receive regular airplay on SiriusXM and bluegrass radio stations nationwide. The band's third album, Unfinished Bridges, earned widespread acclaim and national recognition. Several songs from the project, including the title track written by Mark Brinkman and Alex MacLeod’s original gospel song “Let Me Be the Best Bible,” achieved strong chart success. “Let Me Be the Best Bible” remained a top song on both the Christian Voice Magazine and Cashbox charts. Most recently, the band released a beautiful patriotic song This Is Why, co-written by MacLeod and Brinkman, featuring special guest, Rhonda Vincent. The band also wrapped up its fourth project, a full 14-track gospel project, One More Valley. Band Members Joe Deetz — Banjo, Vocals A bluegrass veteran with more than 45 years of experience, Joe Deetz began his career with the legendary New England Bluegrass Boys alongside Joe Val. Throughout his career, he has performed and recorded with notable artists including Frank Wakefield, John Herald, Will Scarlet, Back Eddy, The Beach Boys, and Carole King. He was also featured on the Sesame Street recording of “The Garbage Man Blues.” Joe's tasteful yet driving banjo style and strong harmony vocals are foundational to the Rock Hearts sound. Alex MacLeod — Guitar, Lead Vocals Raised in a bluegrass family, Alex developed his love for the music through the influence of his parents, Sandy and Geri MacLeod. An accomplished songwriter, vocalist, and guitarist, he has fronted several respected regional bands, including Northern Lights, Southern Rhode, Back Eddy, and the Iron Skillet Band. In 2024, Alex joined Tony Trischka's Earl Jam Tour as a guest guitarist and vocalist. His song “Wanderlust” earned him a place among just ten writers selected for the 2024 IBMA Songwriter case. He is also a sought-after emcee at bluegrass festivals throughout the region. Billy “BT” Thibodeau — Mandolin, Guitar, Vocals Billy Thibodeau brings a rich bluegrass heritage, powerful vocals, and exceptional musicianship to Rock Hearts. A multi-instrumentalist with decades of experience, he learned the craft alongside his father and family in the Kennebec Valley Boys before leading The Bill Thibodeau Band and performing with groups such as Descendants of Bluegrass and Union River Band. Billy is a member of the IBMA Leadership Bluegrass Class of 2017, a Kentucky Mandolin artist endorser for Saga Musical Instruments, and was inducted into the Maine Country Music Hall of Fame in 2024. Rick Brodsky — Bass, Vocals A versatile multi-instrumentalist with more than 35 years of performing experience, Rick is a familiar face throughout the Connecticut and New York bluegrass scene. He has performed with Jonathan Edwards, Jeff Scroggins & Colorado, Stacy Phillips & His Bluegrass Characters, Laura Orshaw & The New Velvet, and many others. His bass work can be heard on several acclaimed recordings, including projects by banjoist Ben Freed and The Korey Brodsky Band. Rick is a member of the IBMA Leadership Bluegrass Class of 2025 Austin Scelzo — Fiddle, Vocals Austin Scelzo developed his musical foundation through Mark O'Connor's Berklee String Camps, studying with some of the most respected names in American fiddling. His bluegrass career began with The Angry O'Haras and later continued with On the Trail. Beyond performing, Austin is a dedicated advocate for the bluegrass community, teaching Wernick Method jam classes, operating the Bluegrass Coffeehouse concert series, and founding the Connecticut Bluegrass Music Association. His contributions have earned numerous IBMA recognitions, including the 2025 IBMA Industry Involvement Award. He was recently appointed as one of the newest members of the IBMA's Board of Directors.

Venue

Jalopy Theater

315 Columbia St, Brooklyn, NY 11231

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