By: Fiona Hannigan

When you first hear the signature fiddle, artfully played by Polecat‘s Cayley Schmid, you might wonder whether you’ve stumbled into an old school hoedown. But Bellingham’s Polecat is so much more than bluegrass. Self-described as “roots music,” their sound is a uniquely earnest blend of genre, making it approachable and full of a contagious energy that warrants appreciation.

Band members Richard Reeves (double bass), Karl Olson (drums), Aaron Guest (vocals and 12-string guitar), and Jeremy Elliott (electric lead guitar and vocals) do more than keep up with Schmid’s soulful fiddle. Together they are a group of highly skilled musicians, who walk the line between traditional sounds and modern flair. Their guitar and fiddle have as much lyrical depth as words, held together with seamless rhythm. Their sound is tight and cohesive, but full of life and celebration. 30 seconds into listening to this band, you can’t help but start tapping your feet.

If there’s one thing Polecat is known for, it is live performance. They’ve reportedly played over 400 shows. Getting an audience to get down is their expertise. Don’t believe it? Come out Saturday night at 7pm as they close down our Treefort showcase and see for yourself.