CHARLIE TORCH

Here is our band bio: Jasper and Jayna Manning, the sibling duo at the heart of Charlie Torch, bring a raw, authentic energy to the bluegrass and country music scene. As the Charlie Torch Duo, they channel the spirit of traditional mountain music with a sound that's both gritty and soulful. Jasper's masterful mandolin playing, paired with Jayna's rock-solid rhythm guitar, lays a foundation steeped in tradition yet full of character. Their brother-sister harmonies, rich with emotion and sincerity, echo the roots of classic country, with Jayna’s voice carrying a depth that feels both familiar and refreshingly honest. Together, they craft a musical experience that’s intimate, powerful, and undeniably connected to the stories and sounds that shaped them.

But Jasper and Jayna are just the beginning of what makes Charlie Torch a truly remarkable band. The full ensemble weaves a rich tapestry of places, feelings, and colors, reflecting a lifelong connection to bluegrass and country music. Chad Manning, the band's fiddler and father to Jasper and Jayna, brings decades of experience from his time with the David Grisman Quintet, Laurie Lewis and the Right Hands, and his current performances with Peter Rowan. His deep understanding of the genre adds an authentic and seasoned dimension to the band's sound.

On banjo, Tyler Stegall brings versatility and a modern edge, having played with several prominent California bands including Solid Gold Stranger and High Water Line. His dynamic style adds a contemporary twist to the band’s traditional roots, bridging the old with the new.

Anchoring the group is Paul Knight, a distinguished bassist with a long history of collaborations with icons like Peter Rowan and Ramblin' Jack Elliott. His deep, resonant bass lines provide the steady groove that underpins the band’s performances, adding a soulful depth to their music.

Together, Charlie Torch creates something truly magical. Their collective sound is intimate yet powerful, deeply rooted in tradition but full of character and innovation. Whether performing as a duo or a full band, they offer an experience that speaks to the heart of bluegrass and country music, connecting with audiences on a profound and emotional level.