Made up of crack musicians, including mandolin player Adam Steffey and fiddler Ron Stewart, The Boxcars were nominated for the IBMA’s top award, entertainer of the year, along with three-time reigning winner Dailey & Vincent, two-time winner The Grascals, Steve Martin & The Steep Canyon Rangers and The Gibson Brothers.

Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out were next with eight nominations, followed by Alison Krauss & Union Station featuring Jerry Douglas and The Gibson Brothers with seven. Martin and the Rangers and The Lonesome River Band both received five nominations.

Sam Bush will host the awards Sept. 29 at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.