Eddy Poirier & Grassline bring together some of the most accomplished bluegrass musicians in Atlantic Canada, weaving decades of tradition with fresh energy. At the heart of the group is Eddy Poirier, born in Rogersville, NB, whose career spans more than half a century. A five-time winner of both Entertainer of the Year and Guitar Player of the Year at the East Coast Bluegrass Music Awards, Poirier is widely regarded as a master of his craft. His induction into the New Brunswick Country Music Hall of Fame in 2002 cemented his legacy as one of the region’s most influential figures. With recordings dating back to the 1960s and a celebrated run as frontman of the legendary Bluegrass 4, Eddy continues to showcase his versatility on banjo, fiddle, guitar, and mandolin, while lending his voice to both lead and harmony vocals.
Joining him is mandolinist and vocalist Dennis Douthwright of Hillsborough, NB, who became part of Grassline in 2023. Dennis has been a fixture in Maritime bluegrass since the early 1990s, first with Demoiselle Creek, then with Special Edition, and later with The Douthwrights—a family band that recorded three albums and toured widely. His crisp mandolin style and strong vocals add depth and drive to Grassline’s sound.
Laurie Chavarie, a cousin of the Poirier family, hails from Acadieville, NB. With Grassline, he plays guitar and mandolin while contributing vocals. Laurie has been performing since his teens and spent two decades fronting Timberland Express, a band well-known across the Maritimes. His long experience and family ties bring both warmth and authenticity to the group’s performances.
Rounding out the lineup is bassist and vocalist Laurie Beaman from Campbellton, NB. Beaman’s career includes time with Mountain Meadow in the 1990s, followed by A New Blade of Grass from 1999 to 2006. He later joined the Eddy Poirier Family Band until its disbandment in 2019. His return to collaborate with Poirier in Grassline marks a new chapter, bringing steady rhythm and rich harmonies to the ensemble.
Together, Grassline embodies the spirit of Maritime bluegrass: seasoned musicianship, heartfelt vocals, and a deep respect for tradition. Their performances highlight not only technical mastery but also the joy of collaboration, making them a standout act for audiences who value both heritage and innovation.