The REX Theater Presents: The Amanda Cook Band Album Release Show – Galax, VA

The Amanda Cook Band

Amanda Cook, now entering her tenth year as the leader of the Amanda Cook Band, has left an indelible mark on the bluegrass scene. Originally from Jay, Florida, Cook’s passion for bluegrass was ignited by her father, with whom she played in a band during the mid-2000s. With her down-to-earth style, profound connection with her audience, and distinctive vocal range, she quickly achieved popularity.

Fueling a fire to record and tour professionally, Cook made the move to the Mountains of Virginia, to not only sign a long term 5 album contract with record label Mountain Fever Records, but also to work there as an engineer.

The band’s fourth studio album, “Changes,” debuted at the number one spot of the Billboard Bluegrass Album chart in October 2022, coinciding with the band’s continued presence at festivals and top venues nationwide.

In 2022, Amanda was promoted to Chief Operation Officer of Mountain Fever Records where she continues to oversee operations of the label. In 2024, Cook was chosen as one of 25 distinct members of the bluegrass community to serve in the International Bluegrass Music Association’s annual Bluegrass Leadership program.

A 5th album from the band is slated to release Fall of 2024, and the first 2 releases have garnered top ranking play on Sirius XM and have been spotted on the Bluegrass Today charts as well.

The Amanda Cook Band is comprised of: Troy Boone (Sideline, Boone & Foster) who shines on mandolin, vocals, and emcee duties. Longtime friend and collaborator, Carolyne Van Lierop, who’s distinctly precise and driving banjo licks do not go unnoticed. Delivering solid lead guitar, is Brady Wallen (ETSU alumni, Clay Hess Band), holding down the rhythm is bassist Joshua Faul, and delivering spiraling and beautiful fiddle sounds is George Mason (Osmond Brothers, Patti Page, lead violinist and with the Lawrence Welk Orchestra).

REX Theater

In 1940, the town of Galax was excited when the historic Rex Theater first opened it’s doors and the public rushed in. Operating as the only movie theater in the twin county area, many area youngsters and families grew up going to the Rex to see the latest Hollywood blockbusters.

Since 1940, the Rex has served as many things to the Galax community. Today, it is owned by the City of Galax, who has renovated it and made it an important part of the officially designated Historical Downtown area.