Rob McCoury will take a sabbatical from The Travelin’ McCourys after playing his last show on August 26 at Moontower Music Festival.

Rob, who is the youngest son of Del McCoury, was asked to participate in a unique pilot program (partially funded by The String Cheese Incident’s Bill Nershi) on the Polynesian influence on progressive string music.

In a statement, McCoury said, “Bela and Jim Mills inspired me with their travels to Africa, and I have often found myself under the influence of Polynesian culture. There’s a paper umbrella and a world of knowledge in my future.”

The Travelin’ McCourys will welcome Andy Thorn of Leftover Salmon to take Rob’s place in the band. Thorn will join in from September 7-9 as the band’s run through the South continues.