Ears to the Ground Family is a minimal, totally acoustic group with guitar, hand percussion, and banjo. They have a serious focus on lyrical content and sometimes achieve a body-shivering vocal harmony. They make music of resistance to oppression and empire, of communities of hope, and of a faith that sustains. Their tunes draw from R&B, spiritual, soul, folk, Americana, chant, hip-hop, and jazz.

William Sumner is a photographer, songwriter, singer, and lover of beauty based in Virginia Beach. Originally from the Shenandoah Valley, William returned to Harrisonburg this spring to write and record with The Soil and The Seed Project. As a solo artist, William and his band recently released their first full length album, Strangers. William writes, “The best parts of me just have to believe that beauty is always spilling through the cracks of every day.”

Jess Ray is a singer-songwriter, producer, and creative supernova based in her beloved home state of North Carolina. A modern Joan of Arc crafting a new wave of music for those seeking God, Jess blends fresh sonic style with timeless truths, delicately weaving it all together with the realities of the human experience. There is a place for everyone in Jess’ camp of friendly folk music.

Paul Zach is a singer, songwriter, and music minister based in Charlottesville, VA. Paul has written for and appeared on numerous collections of The Porter’s Gate worship project, and he has also released solo albums of songs for the church to sing. His latest release—JOY JOY JOY JOY JOY—is available now.

The Soil and The Seed Project celebrates the release of Volume 10: Ordinary Time and kicks off the Ordinary Time Concert Series, a summer-long, free concert series for kids, families, and everyone seeking a beautiful place to listen to beautiful music that reminds us of God’s presence in the ordinary moments of life.