THE EP

Formed in 2023, Theoretical Blonde is a 5-piece  bluegrass-adjacent band from Salt Lake City with a sound that feels both familiar and refreshingly unexpected. Its members include Peter Cain (mandolin, vocals), Ford Huntington (Guitar, vocals), Grayson Wickel (Fiddle, Banjo, vocals), Patrick McNally (Bass, vocals), and Daniel McNally (Keys). Despite the name, none of the band members are actually blonde, which seems to be a fun little misdirect. What is true is that their music takes cues from bluegrass, jazz, americana, country, jam band, and singer-songwriter traditions, blending these styles into a dynamic and energetic mix. With the addition of keys and electric bass, they expand the traditional bluegrass palette, creating a fuller sound that’s as comfortable with intricate picking as it is with laid-back, groove-driven jams. The group doesn’t try to be tied to one sound or genre; instead, they focus on making music that’s genuine, without worrying about where it fits in the larger landscape.

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At the heart of Theoretical Blonde is a group of best friends who’ve forged a deep connection both on stage and off. It’s this camaraderie that brings something special to the music. The moments of unspoken telepathy during their live shows—the way they anticipate each other’s next move—create an energy that’s impossible to fake. The band’s vibe is one of effortless collaboration, where the chemistry between the members elevates everything they play, making even the most complex arrangements feel natural and unforced. They are worldbuilders. 

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The band’s debut EP captures a lot of this spirit. Tracks like “One of Us” show off a more mellow side, blending bluegrass-style instrumentation with singer-songwriter sensibilities, highlighted by sweet vocal harmonies and a catchy, thoughtful melody. “Another Lover Gone” is a high-octane bluegrass tune that lets each band member flex their instrumental chops, driving the song forward with infectious energy and lightning-fast picking. Then there’s “Perfect Timing”, which is a curveball compared to the rest of the EP. This track dials things down to a softer, indie-folk vibe, featuring electric guitar, drums, and a more relaxed rhythm that sets it apart from the bluegrass backbone of the other songs.

What really sets Theoretical Blonde apart, though, is how their individual talents come together to form something greater than the sum of its parts. There’s an undeniable magic that happens when they play live—moments where their chemistry reaches a point of pure synergy, creating an experience that’s impossible to describe. That feeling, that electricity, is what makes this band worth following. Their weekly gigs at Roha Brewing Project have cultivated a deep local following that promises an auspicious career. It’s not just the songs they play, but how they play them, and the genuine connection they share with each other and their audience. That’s where the real beauty lies.

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Catalog #: WMR2407