The local music scene is not as active compared to previous years in Cullowhee, but a local indie/rock band has quickly gained traction in Jackson county for their unique style of performance.
Moody Bridge, a new four-person band, is entertaining and talkative. They tend to take time between each song to speak with the audience, creating a welcoming atmosphere for diverse crowds. Of course, locally-owned bars welcome this style, as it reinforces the unique, homey aspects of a local business.
After their debut performance at Lazy Hiker on Jan 7, the “Moody Bridge” band secured eight additional shows around the area.
Background
Being named after a road in Cullowhee, Moody Bridge has local roots. Nate Coffey, lead singer and guitarist has lived in Sylva since 2011 and began playing guitar daily as a hobby in the summer of 2019.
“At that time, I was extremely passionate about learning guitar. I had no idea I would be here at that time, but It’s been incredible to see our band come to life,” said Coffey.
The idea of a band started when Coffey met Haydn Hedberg, a percussionist who was part of three separate bands in the past.
Coffey and Hedberg initially hosted house shows in 2021 for family and friends in Cullowhee, but saw “more serious potential” when they met Hunter Johnson and Bobby Lee, both passionate musicians who are now core instrumentalists for the band. (All members/instruments listed below) “Since the beginning, we’ve viewed success as using our passions for music to express ourselves, while also letting others experience that through our work,” said Coffey.
Moody Bridge’s Songwriting
The group was initially focused on covering indie/rock songs, but is now working on original music, which will likely be inspired by the same genres according to Coffey.
“We have many demos but haven’t released anything yet. We want our first releases to be quality, and set a good foundation for the future, ” said Coffey.
All members of the band work on songs together.
“When writing a song, one of us generally comes to the group with a chord progression, poem, or rhythm in our mind. From there, each musician builds onto it with their respective instrument,” Coffey explained.
A Message from Moody Bridge
“We are extremely grateful for the many people who have supported us, and we all look forward to meeting you. We have a few shows coming up, and more plans are in the works. I hope to see you there.” -Nate Coffey
