If you're a bluegrass follower, plant the Darren Nicholson Band near the front of your parade. Nicholson, popular mandolin player and vocalist with Haywood County's white-hot, chart-topping Balsam Range, fronts his own band of stellar musicians: Steve Sutton, banjo; Kevin Sluder, acoustic bass and vocals; Griff Martin, guitar and vocals; and Jeff Smith on percussion.

"We have world-class musicians here at home," said Nicholson. "They've done amazing things, yet they're down to earth and just want to play music."

Nicholson started with mentor Steve Sutton. Waynesville's three-time Grammy nominee and four-time IBMA award winner celebrates 50 years of playing professionally next year when he turns 57, and is considered by many to be one of the best banjo players performing in the world ...