Bio Breakdown

Earl “The Pearl” Karlsen – mandolin, vocals

Never underestimate a Viking. He may be a long way from the fjords of Norway, but this viking can sing and play. UFDA! The Pearl jams hard on mandolin and vocals – smoke has been seen billowing from the bowels of his mando.  To fuel his passion for the genre, he promotes grass by hosting the Bluegrass Express radio show on WFDU FM, 89.1 out of Farleigh Dickinson University. Catch him Saturday mornings from 6am to 9am.






“The Legend” Arnie Reisman – banjo, vocals

Some say that Arnie was the first entry in Wikipedia for his hard driving banjo pickin.   Listen to a few sound samples and you be the judge.  He’s finger pickin good – you should see him eat a lobster.










Jeff  Propert “aka: Orka” -  guitar, vocals

And in this corner, Jeff Propert, guitar player extraordinnaire, aka “Orka” … this killer guitar player has no natural predators.  His stylistic approach to lead and tenor vocals puts the blue in bluegrass.  Unique vocals, hard pickin guitar playing, Jeff is a cornerstone of Heavy Traffic’s sought after traditional sound.








Guy ”The Drive” Leatherman – bass, vocals

Why “The Drive”? – Thats the name of the game!  The Big Drive puts the “Heavy” in Traffc by providing solid timing and groove. He compliments  Traffic’s traditional bluegrass sound and rounds out the band with his solid playing.  Check ‘em out on that unique 5-string bass.