Front Range

Formed in 1984 in Denver, Colorado, but only two band members ever lived there (Mike Lantz, Ron Lynam). Dick and Amos live in Pennsylvania and Vermont respectively. The name “Front Range” comes from the name given to the eastern slopes of the Colorado Rockies. 1988, recorded first album (a cassette). Original band included Peter Schwimmer on banjo. 1990, recorded second album in their own studio on their own record label. Mailed 500 copies to radio stations and the song “High Mountain Meadow” became a #1 song. 1992, released New Frontier album (Sugar Hill). 1993, released Back to Red River album (Sugar Hill).1995, released One Beautiful Day album (Sugar Hill). Won the IBMA award for Gospel Recording of the Year. Banjo player Ron Lynam is the world’s undisputed “Underwater Banjo Champion.” He accomplished this feat by playing an aluminum banjo underwater in a pool at the Midwinter (Ft. Collins, CO) Bluegrass Festival. It has become an annual event. He is also a high school social studies teacher.1997, released Ramblin’ on My Mind album (Sugar Hill). 2000, released Silent Ground album (Sugar Hill). Lead singer Bob Amos is a prolific songwriter with a master’s degree in geology. 2004, the group recorded its last album together. 2006, mandolinist Mike Lantz died of brain cancer.