Taylor Ackley and the Deep Roots Ensemble return with our second album, Hard Tellin'. This work builds upon the approach heard in our first release, Songs from the Bitterroot, blending American folk and roots song with classical chamber music and jazz improvisation, but expands our instrumental and creative scope. Exploring themes of love, family, sin and salvation, this album captures a more refined, cohesive approach to making music.

The first album by Taylor Ackley and the Deep Roots Ensemble, Songs From the Bitterroot features all original music, including favorites like "Far from Home", "Love Letters" and "That Don't Bother Me".

Not yet released - 26 Strings grows out of the friendship and musical connection between master bluegrass mandolinist Buddy Merriam and composer and mandolinist Taylor Ackley. This album of mandolin duet music features original compositions as well as standards from the folk, bluegrass and jazz repertoires. Merriam and Ackley are joined by the stellar talents of guitarist Steve Salerno and bassist Keenan Zach. Played on all acoustic instruments, including two mandolins and a guitar built by renowned luthier John Monteleone, and recorded at the highest fidelity, this album puts the listener right in the room with these musicians. You won’t believe the sound coming from just 26 Strings.