Hart Valley Drifters

The Hart Valley Drifters were a pivotal American folk music band that emerged during the vibrant folk revival of the early 1960s. Fronted by the legendary Jerry Garcia, who would later co-found the iconic Grateful Dead, the band showcased Garcia's early musical prowess on banjo and guitar. Formed in 1962, the Hart Valley Drifters were a melting pot of folk, bluegrass, and newgrass sounds, laying the groundwork for the jam band genre. Their sole recorded work, "Folk Time," is a historical treasure, marking Garcia's first known studio recording. This album offers a glimpse into the musical roots of one of rock's most influential figures, featuring 17 tracks that blend traditional folk and bluegrass influences. The Hart Valley Drifters' music is a testament to the rich tapestry of American folk music and a fascinating prelude to Garcia's groundbreaking career.