The Debutants

Fort Wayne’s own Debutants bring their high-energy brand of Indiana newgrass home for a late-summer evening at the Philharmonic Center. Formed by longtime friends Lynn Nicholson and Jon Swain, The Debutants have evolved into a formidable string band with eclectic influences spanning traditional folk, bluegrass, and Irish music, to classic and indie rock, rockabilly, and jam bands. Dancing between songs and styles old and new, this fun-loving collective dazzles with dynamic live performances in a room that was made for exactly this kind of evening. Close, intimate, and alive — the Phil Center at its best. Caught In The Press: Impressive musicianship, earnest songwriting, and miles of melody define this seven-member band. String-heavy and filled with serious picking power, the Debutants lock into the Nickel Creek, Béla Fleck, and Punch Brothers vibe — as likely to delight Bill Monroe fans as they are Dylan devotees. (Whatzup) Their latest album, Fiddle & a Rose, is out now.