With its name heavily influenced by Canadian country-rock band Blue Rodeo and its song "Diamond Mine," Blue Diamond Shine formed in Austin, TX, in the late '90s. After performing throughout the Austin circuit, the band entered the studio in 1998 to record its debut album. The self-titled debut album in 1999 drew instant comparisons to Wilco, Gram Parsons, the Old 97s, and Waylon Jennings, among others. The album's country and rock sound also earn praise among Austin-area critics. In 2002, the group released That God Forsaken Road on Entwine Records. The group has toured throughout the United States and has performed at various music industry showcases. ~ Jason MacNeil