The Colorado bluegrass scene is a tight-knit community but full of vibrant acts from every corner. Magoo is one of these and has been playing music together since 2022.

The band began as a trio with Erik Hill (guitar), Dylan Flynn (dobro), and Paul Flynn (bass). With a few members coming and going throughout the years, the band stands now as a quartet with members Hill, Dylan Flynn, Courtlyn Bills (mandolin) and Denton Turner (bass).

Honoring the traditions of bluegrass through improvisation

Each member of Magoo comes from very different backgrounds, but hone their focus on bluegrass. And while they may try their best to keep the integrity of bluegrass in their musicianship, Magoo follows a groove through improvisation. “We might play a traditional tune like ‘Ain’t Nobody Gonna Miss Me’ by Jimmy Martin, and then find ourselves in a jam that takes the audience on a journey through high peaks or trancey, disco-like grooves,” the band said.

They have gained relevancy in the jam band scene in the Mountain West, and through their work, they push forward Western nostalgia that has hit the social media industry. From the long-winded riffs on the mandolin to the continuous musical breaks on the acoustic guitar, the band’s sound is entirely colorful. Taking a natural influence not only on their sound but also in their brand, they’ve honed in on a simplistic, psychedelic palette that keeps things open for interpretation for all audiences.

They added that collaboration and ambition are at the forefront of their production and musical performance, keeping fun and experimentation central to their relationship. From this, Magoo has received many accolades from festivals and competitions like the UllrGrass Band Competition, Clash of the Strings Battle of the Bands, Telluride Bluegrass Festival, and many more. But the competitive environment is not one they partake in. They said that while they are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of something big and receive recognition for the work they do, music is always going to be there, whether the band wins first place or not. “If we win, great; if not, we’re doing this thing anyway, and it’s only more fuel to the ambition and drive we all share to make great music and have a great time doing it,” they said.

About “What a Life”

From ambition and just plain old fun, Magoo releases their debut album on Feb. 27. Titled “What a Life,” the album is a product of taking risks and allowing creativity to flow from their fingertips to the soundwaves bouncing from the walls to the trees. They added that they had the opportunity to record in Nashville, Tennessee, with newgrass legend Sam Bush and recalled that it was “definitely a highlight of the album recording process, as he’s a hero to all of us.” 

Working with Bush on the recording process and fulfilling a nationwide tour are the ethos of the album’s message. The band said “What A Life” is “an ode to squeezing the most out of life you can and living it to your absolute fullest.” And with 2026 being their busiest year yet, “What A Life” has become a reality in their own lives. The title track is described as a direct accompaniment to the message, and throughout the album, themes of travel, love, losing love and building relationships are prevalent. They hope that it brings familiarity and relatability to each stop on the road. 

Magoo is touring now and hopes that the album can manifest itself not only in their performance, but in the lives of the audience who attend each concert. 

Love for the game and for the fans

They’re excited to be on the road and sharing their music with new corners and ears across the country. Some of the stops include their “bucketlist festivals” like Del Fest, Bourbon and Beyond and Blue Ox. And while they take their music seriously, they keep fun at the center of it all. And that is what has made them so successful. “Take chances and risks, say yes to cool opportunities that pop up, don’t box yourself into societal norms or standards, just be you and live the life you want to live and enjoy the ride,” they said.

Catch them on tour now through March 29 and listen to “What A Life” wherever you get your music. Find out more here.

“If you’re reading this article, or if you bought a ticket to a show or bought a piece of merch from us, we can’t thank you enough for the support! Our fans are some of the coolest and kindest folks out there and we love the community we’re building together,” they said.