Rising Appalachia, an internationally touring Appalachian and world folk ensemble founded by Atlanta-raised, New Orleans-based sisters Leah and Chloe Smith whose soulful folk-roots sound traces back to their open-minded musician parents and to grassroots music communities in the hills and valleys of the Deep South as well as urban Atlanta, has consistently used its platform to activate, organize and support frontline justice work and community organizations. Fifteen years into an adventure that has taken this self-made, stubbornly independent band around the globe, they have recently released a new master-work, their seventh album, Leylines, recorded in California in a studio overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

“Stand Like an Oak” by Rising Appalachia

A luminous example of socially engaged and visionary artistry, Rising Appalachia perform their song “Stand Like an Oak.”

Art That Responds to the Times: Wisdom from Rising Appalachia

Chloe Smith of Rising Appalachia discusses making art that brings people together and responds to the times we’re in with Bioneers Arts Coordinator, Polina Smith.