Sylamore Special: A Rising Bluegrass Sensation

Sylamore Special: A Rising Bluegrass Sensation

Sylamore Special, a bluegrass band from Mountain View, was established in 2021 and quickly gained recognition by winning the Young Artist of the Year award at the 2022 Arkansas Country Music Awards. The group continued to impress by winning the Inspirational Artist of the Year award in 2024 and is now in the running for their third consecutive Bluegrass Artist of the Year award. The band members, including fiddle player Mary Parker, express their gratitude for the recognition and the opportunity to connect with their audience through their music. The band consists of Mary Parker, her brother Gordon on mandolin, Turner Atwell on guitar, Lillyanne McCool on banjo, and Crystal McCool on the upright bass. They draw inspiration from the Ozark tradition and have performed at various festivals and events, showcasing their unique sound and talent. Their debut album was released in late 2024, and they even had the opportunity to perform at a bluegrass festival in Ireland last year. The band members enjoy collaborating and pushing each other creatively, resulting in a sound they are proud to share with their audience. Their passion and energy shine through in their music, creating a memorable experience for their listeners. Check out the full article in the May 2026 issue of AY Magazine.