NRMS 19 - Christmas - Joe Shelton, A Bright Abyss and Paul Bertsch

The National Road Music Series is brought to you by Moonshine and Music and Dominos Pizza. Our goal is to bring ORIGINAL music artists to Hancock County and encourage a local culture of Music, Creativity and Entertainment.

🎸 Artist Bio — Joe Shelton

Indiana singer-songwriter Joe Shelton returns home to the National Road Music Series for a special Christmas edition of the show, bringing his unmistakable warmth, storytelling, and humor to the stage as both performer and host. Joe’s latest album, Somethin’ Just Ain’t Right, features the underground favorites Runaway and Backroads, continuing a musical journey that has earned millions of streams and acclaim across the Midwest.

Known for heartfelt performances and a voice that connects instantly with audiences, Joe has spent years touring, hosting the Moonshine and Music podcast, producing events, and championing Indiana musicians. His blend of Americana, folk, and soulful roots makes him a natural centerpiece for this year’s holiday concert — guiding the night with original songs, seasonal favorites, and his signature easygoing charm.

🎤 Artist Bio — A Bright Abyss

A Bright Abyss, formerly known as Sister Sinjin, brings an evocative style of “psychoanalytic folk” — music that dives deep without turning dark, finding creativity and wholeness in the depths. Known for haunting harmonies, intimate songwriting, and a sound once described as gothic, ethereal, and emotionally rich, the group has evolved while keeping the heart of what made their earlier work beloved.

Their reflective, atmospheric style makes them a perfect fit for the Christmas edition of the National Road Music Series, offering a warm yet soul-stirring performance for the season.

🎶 Artist Bio — Paul Bertsch

A Greenfield native and longtime favorite in the central Indiana music scene, Paul Bertsch brings his signature blend of heartfelt songwriting and seasoned musicianship to this special Christmas edition of the National Road Music Series. Now based in Bloomington, Paul maintains a full performance schedule—both as a solo artist and with The Paul Bertsch Band, a group that has been performing and recording together since 1987.

Paul recently released his sixth studio album, The Listening Room (October 2025), adding to a rich catalog that includes The Traveller (1998), Red Dirt Road (2011), Prairieton Sessions (2015), Remnant Highway (2019), and Martians and Earthlings (2022). His music—available on Spotify and all major streaming platforms—blends thoughtful storytelling with melodies shaped by decades of craft.

The HJ Ricks Centre for the Arts is a fantastic venue for this event and we will have Moonshine and Music cameras on hand to record the action for later release on the YouTube and podcast channels. Come be a big part of the show and excitement of LIVE ORIGINAL MUSIC!