Highland Groove

Event Details

Highland Groove is a dynamic four-piece band hailing from Anniston, Alabama, blending the heart of Southern soul with the energy of funk, rock, and jam-band improvisation. With infectious grooves, tight rhythms, and powerful melodies, Highland Groove delivers a sound that’s both familiar and refreshingly original—crafted to move your feet and stir your soul.

The current lineup—John Flannagan (vocals, guitar), Nick Preston (vocals, bass), Justin Ridley (drums), and Gary McCormick (keys)—has been playing together for over five years, though the band’s roots stretch back a full decade. Together, they’ve developed a chemistry that’s unmistakable on stage, fueled by a shared love of storytelling through music and the push-pull energy of live performance.

Drawing inspiration from artists like Marcus King Band, Vulfpeck, Tedeschi Trucks Band, John Mayer, and Scary Pockets, Highland Groove creates music that’s as tight as it is soulful. Their performances are marked by rich vocal harmonies, rhythmic precision, and moments of spontaneous improvisation—turning each show into a one-of-a-kind experience.

Over the years, Highland Groove has built a strong regional following, playing a wide variety of venues—from the adrenaline of Talladega Motor Speedway to the community spirit of Oxford Fest, where they’ve been featured multiple times.

They’ve also performed for ERA King’s 50th Anniversary Celebration and brought their unique sound to bars, nightclubs, private parties, and events across northern Alabama.

Looking ahead to 2025, Highland Groove is gearing up for an exciting year of new music, fresh collaborations, and more high-energy shows. Whether on a festival stage or in a packed local venue, the band continues to bring a sound that’s as skillful as it is soulful—groove-driven music that resonates long after the last note.