After 70 years in business, the Bynum General Store finally closed its doors in 2006. But the people of Bynum—a tiny community just off Highway 15-501 between Chapel Hill and Pittsboro—recognized the historical landmark’s enduring value as a community gathering place. So they established the nonprofit Bynum Front Porch to continue using the store site for community events—including the summer music series, which began back in 2001, when the store was still open. These weekly Friday evening concerts, which are free and run from 7–9 p.m., continue to attract a strong bill of local talent, and this week’s selection is no exception.
In the ’90s, twin brothers Mark and Michael Holland earned acclaim as the co-leaders of the alt-rock-meets-blues band Jennyanykind, peers of the fleeting anything-goes alternative rock boom that also spawned quirky cult favorites Ben Folds Five and Squirrel Nut Zippers. When that band dissolved after the millennium turned, Mark went on to lead the more rock-leaning Jule Brown, while Michael explored traditional blues and string-band music. He did this as a solo act and in various collaborations, including 2010’s Rhythm of Love with the Occoneechee String Band, which featured members of Mandolin Orange and Birds and Arrows.
Earlier this year they released Dueling Devils as The Holland Brothers. It showcases both sides of the Holland musical spectrum: Michael’s timeless old-time and Mark’s forward-thinking blues modulations. In tandem, The Holland Brothers reflect the dual mission of this evening’s venue: to honor history and to ensure its future.