The Denver-based band exploded onto the bluegrass scene less than five years ago; now, they have a packed tour schedule playing shows and festivals across the country. Yampa Valley Arts & Culture Guide caught up with upright bass player (and former Ski Town Media employee!), Denton Turner.
Yampa Valley Arts & Culture Guide: The band seems like it has really blown up recently – and has gone from being relatively new on the scene to playing some major festivals – how has that been for all of the band members?
Denton Turner: Well, it has been a whirlwind for sure, but feels very rewarding. We have all been dedicated to playing music for a very long time and have all played in many bands and projects before this. So in a way, it feels like a long time coming. To find a group that is dedicated, and a team that is all in a place to give it 100%, is hard – I think we are all grateful to be a part of this. Traveling as much as we are and playing as much as we are is extremely difficult and takes everyone being on the same page to make it work.
YVACG: What do you attribute your quick success to?
D.T.: Hard work, dedication, and a shared mindset to go all in. Giving up your personal life to be on the road and in different towns day in and day out requires a huge commitment and dedication on everyone's behalf.
YVACG: Was there a moment or two when you guys realized that things were moving quickly in terms of being asked to play at bigger and bigger shows?
D.T.:Last year was a very grinding year as far as traveling and playing towns for audiences for the first time. This summer we are really seeing the rewards for the hard work. Now we are seeing bigger audiences and familiar faces wherever we go. Each town we go to, people know the lyrics to our songs and are lined up outside waiting to get in. This summer really feels like things are moving in a successful, exciting direction.
YVACG: What’s a lesson that you’ve learned from the past year on the road?
D.T.: Patience and the importance of keeping a calm, collected headspace. For me, it's finding time for myself to go for long walks, to get out in nature, and just clear my mind of the stress of travel and being in the van for long hours for weeks at a time.
YVACG: What new projects, albums or songs are you working on now?
D.T.: Top secret!
YVACG: Magoo is known for improv and live jams – has that ever gone in an unexpected direction?
D.T.: Every night it goes in directions we never thought or planned, and I love it that way. I've never wanted to be in a band that does the same thing every night. I like to be challenged and live life without a direct plan, so this band gives me that in many ways.
YVACG: Where has been your favorite place to play so far?
D.T.: I've always enjoyed playing for all types of audiences, big or small, stages grand or little. They are all unique. To me, it's the energy and vibe of the place and the people. We have had some very memorable shows in backyards, some huge bucket list festival stages, and everything in between. We’ve played in old churches that were turned into venues – those were really cool experiences that I never expected.
YVACG: What do you hope that the next year brings for you all as a band?
D.T.: Peace, love, balance, good times, good vibes, spreading joy and connecting with more and more people around the country. The world needs it, and I feel blessed and grateful for the opportunity and position to do something that makes people happy, as well as me.