​​What happens when two small-town musicians with a guitar, a banjo, and a whole lot of heart hit the streets of Floyd, Virginia? For Chris Link and Shane Edgell, it meant turning street-corner busking in 2011 into The Deer Run Drifters, a band that grew from playing the first-ever Talford Rodeo in 2012 to becoming a regional Americana force. Joined by Joe Link, Sean Edgell, and Will Norton, they logged 200+ shows across the East Coast and Midwest, toured the U.S., and released two acclaimed albums—Appalachian Blues (2013), praised for its raw tales of hardship, and Restless Youth (2015), which amped up their sound with rock-driven energy while keeping their authenticity intact.

 

But the road takes its toll. After completing their 2015 U.S. tour, the Drifters disbanded, stepping away to focus on family, heal from the demands of the music industry, and let time work its magic.

 

Now, more than a decade later, The Deer Run Drifters are back. With a new lineup, a renewed sense of purpose, and fresh songs that embrace their traditional roots, the band is ready to rekindle their connection with fans. Adding Roanoke native Geoff White on old-time fiddle, and rowdy Floydian Josh Penn on percussion, they’re doubling down on the grit and authenticity that made them a standout name in Americana music.

 

The band’s comeback isn’t just a fleeting reunion—it’s a full-fledged revival. They’re kicking off 2025 with a string of shows, leading into festival season, and—rumor has it—working on new music. Fans can expect the same soul-stirring lyrics, dynamic instrumentals, and storytelling charm, now infused with the wisdom and growth of a decade away from the spotlight.

 

The Deer Run Drifters are ready to reclaim their place in the Americana music scene, proving that some fires never burn out—they just need time to smolder before roaring back to life.

Follow the band on social media (@TheDeerRunDrifters) and prepare for a year of unforgettable performances. This is one comeback story you won’t want to miss.