Lil’ Smokies, The

From Missoula, Montana.
Formed in 2010. Band members: Andy Dunnigan (dobro), Scott Parker (upright bass), Matt Cornette (banjo), Jake Simpson (fiddle) and Matt Rieger (guitar).
How they got their name: At their first paid gig, the green room was supplied with beer, toothpicks and a plate of Lil’ Smokies sausages. At that time, they didn’t have a band name. After the show, when asked the name of their band, they looked at the empty plate of toothpicks and had their answer.
2013, won The Northwest String Summit Band Competition in Oregon.
2013, released The Lil’ Smokies album (no label)
2014, released Live on New Year’s Eve album (no label)
2015, won the band contest at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival.
2016, won the IBMA Momentum Award in the band category.
2018, released Changing Shades album (United Interests).