Coyote Grace is a unique, multi-faceted band hailing from the lush expanses of Northern California and featuring three talented individuals. With a foundation firmly anchored in blues, roots, soul and bluegrass, they create extremely appealing music that is highly relatable yet moving.

Joe Stevens, an engaging transgender, is featured as the guitarist and vocalist. Ingrid Elizabeth, a fiery and energetic femme, rocks the upright bass and vocals. In addition, the newest member of the band, the talented Michael Connolly, primarily plays fiddle and mandolin. Put together and armed with a plethora of additional instruments from the accordion to the Cajon, they create a unique experience for the listener to absorb. Coupled with an engag- ing and inviting stage presence for live audiences, the end result is pure musical bliss.

The band started in 2004 in Seattle with the collaboration of Joe Stevens and Ingrid Elizabeth. Their first album, ‘Boxes & Bags’ was released in 2006. Since then, the band has released ‘The Harvey Tour,’ ‘Ear to the Ground,’ ‘Buck Naked’ and their newest release ‘Now Take Flight.’

Coyote Grace now employs a full schedule of touring the United States, stealing hearts at coffee shops, nightclubs, outdoor music festivals, bars and special events. They regularly tour with bands such as the Girlyman and the Indigo Girls, and have also opened for other musicians such as Chris Pureka and Melissa Ferrick.

Coyote Grace played at the Frequency in Madison on Nov. 15 where they did not disap- point. They were in the middle of touring the Midwest touting the release of “Now Take Flight”—and spirits were high.

As I caught up with the band backstage before the show, their vigor was evident.

“It’s all I’ve ever been really good at, where I feel most like myself,” Stevens said.

Ingrid Elizabeth said she looks at the music as a “new brand” of music and something hard to pigeonhole. She also said that they strive to be the “gay you want to see in the world.”

Michael Connolly added that his experiences with Coyote Grace have allowed him to find a voice that feels like his own.

“Playing shows and being involved in the queer communi- ty is powerful,” Connolly said. “Now Take Flight,” is a continuance of personality, according to the band.

Released in November, it racked up 400 pre-sold albums. The entire band expressed gratitude that it was enough to duplicate the album, released through Empty Sea Studios in Seattle, which is owned by Connolly.

The song set played at the concert was peppered with both new and old material. Drawing heavily on promoting their new release, many songs were played off of “Now Take Flight,” but other previously released material was included as well.

Stevens was poignant as always on “A Guy Named Joe,” an extremely moving song delving into his personal journey of gender transition and related experiences. The band does an excellent job of com- bining soul-catching music with LBGTQ visibility and positivity, and much commentary and interaction with the audience is always a part of their stage presence.

Coyote Grace has captured an eclectic fan base of many, both young and old. They can be found proclaiming their sound in cities throughout the United States, and it’s easy to catch them when they are passing through. The band biography, music links, press kit and full show schedule can be found at http://www.coyotegrace.com.

Try them on for size, they might just win your heart over and get your toes tapping in the process.