Red, white and bluegrass

A quick Google search on “Red June” turns up descriptions of a tasty heirloom North Carolina apple that does well in many different soils and produces prolifically. It’s also a fair analogy for the apple’s musical namesake, Asheville trio Red June. The popular Americana band is deeply rooted in North Carolina’s musical heritage, which nurtures an outpouring of original songs that feel both timeless and fresh.

The band reunites infrequently these days due to involvement with other musical projects, so its show at White Horse Black Mountain on Saturday, July 8 is a rare thing, indeed.

The members of the band met at an Asheville music party in 2005, formed Red June in late 2008, and recorded their first album, "Remember Me Well," two years later. They followed that up with a second studio project, "Beauty Will Come," in 2012 and this year’s "Ancient Dreams."

The trio consists of Will Straughan on dobro and guitar, Natalya Weinstein on fiddle and John Cloyd Miller on mandolin and guitar. The three powerful instrumentalists blend vintage country, bluegrass, and American roots music with a contemporary sensibility to create a hybrid sound. Each member is also a strong and individualist singer, but when they combine their voices, the three-part harmony is stunning.

In 2015 the band went on hiatus as Straughan began a job with an international nonprofit agency and Weinstein and Miller welcomed their daughter into the world. Along with Red June reunions, Weinstein and Miller perform as Zoe & Cloyd, the couple’s middle names. Their debut duet recording, "Equinox," was released in April 2015 and was named one of the “Outstanding Duo Albums of 2015” by No Depression Magazine. Their latest album, "Eyes Brand New," maintains the high bar. The duo has played at Merlefest, Music City Roots, and more.

July, band, bluegrass

Who: Red June

When: 8 p.m. July 8

Where: White Horse Black Mountain

Cost: $12 advance, $15 door