Award winning singer-songwriter Wil Maring and her former multi-instrumentalist spouse Mark Stoffel were the core of their bluegrass/folk band Shady Mix, bridging the gaps between bluegrass, folk, and country. Much of the repertoire were bluegrass-tinged originals, complemented by uniquely arranged covers. Standards, old-time, and even old cowboy songs filled out their live show, with something to please almost everyone. Wil and Mark, with their band Shady Mix, spent almost a decade working professionally in Europe, and became one of the most accomplished acoustic bands on that side of the Atlantic. During their time together, Shady Mix released three band recordings. The unique Shady Mix sound is centered around Wil's clean, airy vocals and the smooth blend of harmonies. Clean understated instrumental work and arrangements support the well-crafted original songs perfectly. AN OCEAN FROM HOME was Wil's first solo release, originally on Bear Family Records, when Wil and Mark lived in Europe. AN OCEAN FROM HOME is a collection of 11 originals and 1 standard, recorded with bluegrass instrumentation, ranging from quick bluegrass numbers with twin fiddle to heartfelt waltzes. Many of the original songs on this CD were written during Wil's first years in Europe, and have to do with the homesickness she felt during that time. The songs are crafted however to come across as genuinely heartfelt but not overly nostalgic or corny. In fact, one title, Bottomlands, won the renowned Chris Austin Songwriting Contest in 1998. This recording was described as "bluegrass for a long winter's evening". Check out Wil's follow-up releases, THE TURNING OF A CENTURY and THE CALLING. She is currently touring with musical partner and multi-instrumentalist Robert Bowlin, formerly of Bill Monroe's Bluegrass Boys. "I think Wil is one of the most talented singer/songwriters around… love her music." - Carl Jackson, Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter/producer "Wil is a talented, sensitive singer and writer, one of those rare individuals who lives her music and makes just the right choices when crafting it. She deserves a bigger audience. " - Tim Stafford, Grammy winner and founder of award-winning band Blue Highway, former member of Alison Krauss and Union Station