The core of Uncle Dirtytoes, Maria Anthony and Megan Hurt, have been playing together in various musical arrangements since 1988, and as Uncle Dirtytoes since 1991. Veteran guitarist Roger Holden  has been with the band since 1993, Mark von Schlemmer joined on bass in 1995 and Mike Fitzgerald began drumming with the 'Toes in 1996. Barry Barnes, famed Lawrence poet and drummer added his unique hand percussion to the group around 2004, and Darrell Lea, an original founding member of the 'Toes, rejoined the band in 2007 lending his vocal talents and rhythm and acoustic leads on acoustic guitar.

 

Uncle Dirtytoes has an extensive musical repertoire consisting mainly of originals which are complemented by a mixture of traditional and contemporary cover songs. The originals vary widely in style and flavor with songs that are evocative of other times and places, as well as portrayals of life here and now. 

 

The band derives its inspiration from songwriter Maria Anthony and such seminal folk-rock artists as Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span, Jethro Tull, and Richard Thompson, and covers songs by these performers as well as artists such as Bob Dylan, The Waterboys, Jefferson Airplane, and others.

 

Some have asked about the name Uncle Dirtytoes. (Others have not been so bold . . . )  Did your guess make our list?