Trick Pony will gallop into NIBROC Aug. 10

A popular, high-energy country-rock band is the first in a series of musical artists to commit to Corbin’s annual NIBROC festival.
Bruce Carpenter, Executive Director of the Greater Corbin Chamber of Commerce, announced Tuesday that Trick Pony has agreed to play the second night of the festival, Thursday, Aug. 10.
“I am very pleased. It just stays in line with what we’ve been able to do the past several years … bringing some of the top entertainment around to our area,” Carpenter said.
Trick Pony, a trio comprised of Ira Dean, Keith Burns and Heidi Newfield is a regular on cable’s Country Music Television channel and recently released a third album, entitled R.I.D.E.
The group began its formation in 1996 when Burns and Dean left steady backup gigs with more established country artists to strike out on their own. Newfield joined the group shortly thereafter.
Trick Pony released its first, self-title album in 2001. It sparked three singles, including the top five hit On a Night Like This. The album went Gold; the Academy of Country Music awarded them the “Top New Vocal Group;” and they won an American Music Award as “Favorite New Country Artist”. A year later, they followed with On a Mission, another package of great songs and raucous performances, mostly recorded on the road and in hotel rooms.
With the band’s rising popularity, a new album and energetic performances, Carpenter said he thinks Trick Pony will be well received at NIBROC.
“From everyone I’ve spoken to that’s seen them, everything has always been positive,” Carpenter said. “They give a great performance. They are very entertaining and play great music. It’s all very high-energy, foot-stompin’ stuff.”
The band will take the main stage at 9:30 p.m. Carpenter said he hasn’t scheduled an opening act for Trick Pony’s performance yet, and added he usually books opening acts after the main entertainers are scheduled.
Carpenter said he hopes to announce in the near future entertainment for the festivals other nights, including gospel music for Wednesday night.