Ben Townsend is a West Virginia based multi-instrumentalist and producer whose music seamlessly blends Appalachian fiddle and banjo traditions with contemporary electronics and international grooves. Deeply influenced by legendary mentors like Lester McCumbers and Melvin Wine, Ben’s artistry transcends genres to create a sound that is both rooted in heritage and boldly innovative. His work bridges the old and the new, crafting immersive soundscapes that honor tradition while pushing musical boundaries.
After a transformative collaboration with Mehdi Nassouli, a master Gnawan guembri player from Taroudant, Morocco, as part of an international musical exchange sponsored by Found Sound Nation, he was profoundly inspired to explore and integrate both traditional and contemporary African musical styles into his creative repertoire. This experience catalyzed his deep dive into blending the ancient with the modern, and led him to begin experimenting with ways to merge traditional forms with the ambient and electronic realms through the use of modular synthesis.
Ben’s forthcoming project, 10 Breakdowns to a Disco Beat, along with a series of collaborations under the moniker Tabernacle, exemplify his innovative approach, bridging disparate genres and forging new sonic landscapes. These works reflect a seamless fusion of organic and electronic elements, revealing a bold, boundary-pushing vision.
Track List
- Ducks on the Millpond
- Crockett's Honeymoon (feat. Smiling Friends)
- Elzic's Farewell (feat. Dina MacCabee)
- Sandy River Belles
- Ducks on the Pond (feat. The Henry Girls)
- Farewell to Long Hollow (feat. Matt Metz)
- The Stork (feat. Paul Martin)
- Old Mother Flanagan (feat. Sarah Kate Morgan)
- Big Sciota (feat. Jim Townsend)
- Ways of the World (feat. Aaron Jonah Lewis)
OTTP7726
This product will be in stock on Friday 16 October, 2026.
