Brothers Wayne and Charlie Russell, both musicians and songwriters, had been performing around Denver as a duo since 2005 and by 2009 were playing as the Hicksy Dix, a trio-sometimes-4-pack. They were an odd country project still in need of some color.

Enter craigslist and the posting "pedal steel player available" and subsequently, Glenn Taylor. Well-known in the Denver music scene, The Russell brothers knew nothing about the quiet genius that was about to enter their lives.

Their first rehearsal, back-dropped by the Colorado mountains, was a rare, magical moment and the three solidified a bond in those first few hours. Within weeks Glenn had asked local, hard-working drummer Todd Moore to come to a rehearsal and the foundation for CGRG was set. Talk of a record ensued almost immediately.

Built around Wayne and Charlie's songs, the Goat Ropers combine country, rock, folk and roots music with pop sensibilities to weave the fabric they nostalgically refer to as "cosmic country." With lyrics echoing hope and loss, the music has the wood-stove comfort of an old mountain cabin; reminding the listener to "kick it back" and "kick 'em up."

With Todd taking flight with Slim Cessna, Front Range drumming legend Monte Thorin joined the Guild to provide a solid rhythmic canvass for Charlie's simple, song-driving bass lines. Wayne's raw, engaging guitar work and Glenn's inspirational steel virtuosity round out the melodic structure of the song. The brother's vocals lead you up the well-worn path and the band's unique chemistry make the house a home. Or a nice pasture for some aging goat ropers.

With their first record, Fly, fresh off the presses, the Goat Ropers are ready to "chip off some cement," spread their wings and do just that. With rehearsals underway for the next record, CGRG is looking to promote Fly, while working out fresh material, to audiences throughout Colorado and the Midwest. To book the Goat Ropers, head to the website or call Wayne at 720-231-9289. The Guild looks forward to hearing from you and making you a member.