Recently, Northern Indiana has lost one of its favorite groups of musicians from the musical haven that is Goshen. The Tumbleweed Jumpers had their final performance in September, marking an end to one of the area’s favorite phenomena. Indiana has always had a significant bluegrass influence. Mixed with Goshen’s peculiar midwestern punk and indie obsession, there are very interesting projects forming all over. The Tumbleweed Jumpers are a great mix of the above. 

Simply listening to the EP released on Spotify, titled “The Tether to The Weather EP” gives an idea of their diverse set of skills in music writing. The namesake, a catchy “folk-punk” song with bluegrass influence called “Tether to the Weather” is a fun tune to listen to and a great way to start getting into bluegrass and folk music. The lead singer on the track sounds like The Dead South’s vocalist, Nate Hilts, a perfect tone for the banjo and guitar driven background. 

The rest of the songs on the EP include a ditty called “Jethro” that features a happy little trumpet playing the melody and an upbeat banjo plucking in the background. It reminds listeners of a Carolina Chocolate Drops song, with just as much passion behind it. “Dragons” is a guitar and vocal feature on the same album that is perfect to add to a spring folk playlist. Before that is a simple ballad called “Valleys.”

Stories of their concerts often contain mentions of how many times people switch instruments. The singer will step back and pull out a banjo while the previous drummer gets the microphone. A tradition occurred where every member stepped back while one would step to the front and perform a sea shanty. The members switch around now and again, so it is more of a community than it is a band. The people create the music and bands like The Tumbleweed Jumpers are their vehicle. 

Unfortunately, this year, their time performing has come to an end. Their final show partnered with Goshen Brewing Company was a bittersweet revival and farewell for the band. Saying goodbye to another local masterpiece is a sad part of the always-growing music scene, but it means members will go on to form new projects, and more people will be inspired to take its place. There are still many groups in the area to discover and appreciate as neighbors and as artists.