With their latest release, The Jack Wharff Band continues to blend traditional Appalachian roots with modern energy. The thrashgrass quartet from Richmond, Virginia now releases the single “Small Town Heart” via Big Machine Records. The song serves as a love letter to the small towns that have shaped both the band and countless Americans.
“Small Town Heart” is written by Jack Wharff, Evan Novoa, Ryan Atchison, Garrett Howell, Luke Wharff, and songwriter Joe Clemmons. The result is a warm tribute to local pride and heroes, where the lyrics make clear that a small-town heart is anything but small. Musically, the single builds on the band’s signature blend of bluegrass, rock, and country—a genre-crossing expression that has earned them a devoted following.
Frontman Jack Wharff, together with drummer Howell, bassist Atchison, and guitarist Novoa, share a clear musical chemistry. On “Small Town Heart,” it’s evident that the band draws energy from their Virginian background, with a mix of Appalachian drive and virtuosic playing style, as well as touches of contemporary country.
The single is a logical continuation after an intense 2026 for The Jack Wharff Band. During the year, they have released the outsider track “Lowlife” and the EP Strange, both examples of the band’s willingness to experiment while staying true to stories that feel real. Their energy has brought them to some of the biggest stages—including Nissan Stadium during CMA Fest, Country Thunder (Wisconsin), Rock the Country, and Tailgate N’ Tallboys.
The Jack Wharff Band had their breakthrough as early as 2024 after viral clips on social media. They quickly followed up the successes with the streaming hit “Washed” and the EP Richmond’s Most Wanted, which, according to Holler Magazine, featured “six tracks of bluegrass-driven gold.” The band has shared the stage with names like Sam Barber, Ole 60, and Max McNown, and forged their own path with the From The Hills To The Holler tour.
The band’s journey continues with the grand North American The High Road Tour, where the main tour launches September 12, 2026 at Mahall’s in Cleveland, Ohio. The tour includes performances at the Boots and Hearts Music Festival, Boots on the Bend, and Rock the Country, as well as special support slots for Max McNown, Ole 60, Dylan Gossett, and The Avett Brothers. These endeavors showcase The Jack Wharff Band’s strong position in the modern Americana and country scene.
With their new single, The Jack Wharff Band asserts that small communities shape big souls, and that pride in one’s hometown heritage lies at the very heart of American music. “Small Town Heart” cements the band as both regional standard-bearers and innovators in genre-blending Americana.
