Bobby Gales is a lifelong musician who was raised in a home filled with music. Bobby was profoundly influenced by his older brother, who instilled in him a deep love and appreciation for music at an early age. Drawn to the banjo, Bobby found his inspiration in the playing styles of Earl Scruggs, Little Roy Lewis, and J.D. Crowe. In the mid-1990s, Bobby became a founding member of the family band Gospel Grass, playing alongside his two sons, Kendall (mandolin) and Cameron (bass). 

In 2007 Bobby founded New Direction, a gospel bluegrass band with Billy Mickle and Charity Dixon (Gales). Even though bands and members change Bobby’s goal has always been to worship and honor God with his music. His love for the Lord and people shines through as he speaks to the audience. His lead and harmony vocals are a valued asset to the band’s performance. Bobby enjoys playing his Gibson 1969 RB-250 Bowtie and rich tones from his Gibson 1930 TB-1 remain central to the group’s sound. 

After retiring from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2018, Bobby began teaching banjo, guitar, and bass; continuing to pass down the music that shaped his life. Whether on stage or in a lesson, Bobby’s love for faith, family, and music tradition shines through every note.

Charity Gales is the upright bass player and lead/harmony vocalist for New Direction, bringing a heartfelt blend of musical skill and deep spiritual conviction to every performance. Her love for music was kindled at an early age by her mother, who sang in church, and her grandfather, whose rich tradition of gospel quartet singing left a lasting impression. Surrounded by harmony and heritage, Charity's musical journey was rooted in family and faith.

Throughout her public school years, she received formal choral training, studied music theory, and learned piano—laying a strong foundation for what would become a lifelong passion. But singing has always been her first love. In 2000, God opened the door for Charity to begin a solo music ministry, leading to the release of two personal and powerful projects, I Am Captured and Legacy. During that season, she sang at churches across the region and cherishes the many friendships and shared moments of worship that blossomed along the way.

In 2007, Charity stepped into the world of bluegrass gospel music, picking up the upright bass and discovering a new musical joy. A year later, she helped found New Direction, where she found not only a calling but a musical family. Playing her beloved 1956 “Baby Kay” upright bass, she brings both rhythm and warmth to the band’s sound. Whether singing lead or blending into rich harmonies, Charity’s heart for ministry shines through in every note.

She is thankful and humbled to be a part of what God is doing through New Direction and is passionate about using music as a tool for encouragement, worship, and connection.

Sarah Drye is a gifted and versatile musician whose talents span across guitar, fiddle, mandolin, piano, and just about any instrument she picks up. With a natural ear and an eagerness to learn, Sarah brings both technical skill and heartfelt expression to every performance. Her dynamic voice—capable of soaring leads and seamless harmonies—makes her a powerful presence on any stage.

Sarah's musical journey began in the heart of a bluegrass family band, The Walters Family, where she played and sang alongside her two talented sisters and her parents. Those early years, steeped in gospel and traditional bluegrass, laid the foundation for her deep love of music rooted in faith and family.

Now recently married, Sarah and her husband Dylan share their love for music through their trio band Carolina Calls, blending folky originals, southern rock, and timeless oldies. Whether writing songs or reviving classics, Sarah brings creativity and conviction to their unique sound.

Though she enjoys exploring a variety of musical genres, bluegrass gospel continues to hold a special place in her heart—it connects her to her roots and reflects her commitment to Christ. Faith remains central in Sarah’s life. Whether she’s on stage with New Direction or Carolina Calls, Sarah Drye is a passionate musician who plays and sings with purpose—always pointing back to the One who gave her the gift.

Brice got his first guitar around 10 years of age and he was passionate from then on to teach himself and learn from others. He taught himself flatpicking and Mr. Billy Mickle, former New Direction Guitarist,  mentored Brice. He caught on quickly and practiced constantly and went to any jams that were nearby. 

With his God given talent of playing by ear, Brice has become an exceptional and adaptable lead soloing guitarist, and as of late, accompanies himself singing with New Direction.

He listened to a lot of Doc Watson and learned the old Merle Travis, Chet Atkins style known as "Travis Picking".  His mastery & dedication to the art of fingerstyle & flatpicking has served him well.  WIth every chord and note picked you can sense his love and dedication to the music.

Brice also enjoys playing solo for special events such as weddings, coffee houses, and restaurants.  He plays special music for churches across the triangle area as well.

With New Direction Bluegrass, Brice's choice of guitar is a  Martin Custom Shop Authentic 1937 D-28. 

He has written several songs for the acoustic guitar which were inspired by different places and events in his life that he hopes to record one day. Playing with New Direction, he has enjoyed playing rhythm, lead, and singing for the Lord and looks forward to using his talent to be a blessing to others in the future. Brice is definitely a very gifted "CGP"......Certified Guitar Picker!