This week, Nashville, TN based high energy neo-traditional oldtime music sensation The Hogslop String Band returns to Ozark Folk Center State Park. Also, interviews with this rowdy rabble.

“Staying true to tradition while maintaining a bold irreverence is something that rarely goes hand-in-hand but Hogslop String Band manages to walk that line. With their roots in old-time string band music and their energy based in wild rock-and-roll, you could almost call them punk purists.

It’s an unlikely combination, but given the talents of singer and fiddler Kevin Martin; guitarist, harmonica player and singer Gabriel Kelley; mandolin player and singer Will Harrison; banjo player and singer Daniel Binkley, and bassist and all-round entertainer Pickle, they pull it off with natural ease. The name alone hints at their wacky ways, but catching them live will give you a true sense of these bizarre, seemingly contradictory descriptions.

They thrive on crossing genres, casting off the confines of straight old-time and bluegrass, delving into a deep repertoire of rock, folk, psychedelic, and original numbers that can only be described as, 'The Hogslop Sound.' It’s clear that these boys are going places, and they've quickly become one of the most unique and exhilarating outfits on the scene today. 'It only gets weirder from here,' they often say from stage. They're not kidding.” - http://www.hogslopstringband.com

Author, folklorist and songwriter Charley Sandage presents an historical portrait of the people, events and indomitable spirit of Ozark culture that resulted in the creation of the Ozark Folk Center State Park and its enduring legacy of music and craft. This week, Charley continues our celebration of 50 years of the Buffalo National River. This episode describes the park staff and volunteer support structures as well as the immense logistical challenges of maintaining America’s first national river. Featured are interviews with Buffalo National River Chief of Interpretation Cassie Branstetter, area native and long time Buffalo National River staff member Zed Davenport, Buffalo National River Partners Board Chairperson Terrie Martindale, park ranger and interpreter Lauren Ray, and long time area resident and photographer Ed Alexander.