Great American Taxi offers free download to aid miners

The track is offered free to radio stations agreeing to direct listeners to the band's web site, which in turn links to West Virginia Council of Churches web site, which collects donations for the miners.

GAT frontman Vince Herman, who grew up in West Virginia, said: "Great American Taxi sends our thoughts out to the families and communities affected by the mining disaster at the Upper Big Branch mine. We hope that their unconquerable Appalachian spirit and families can help them navigate these difficult times. The country and the world share in their grief."

"We need coal. We need our miners to be safe. We need understanding on all sides of this contentious issue of our national energy policy. We would like to make Taxis' tribute to that Appalachian spirit available as a download here and suggest a donation to the WV Council of Churches to assist the families of our fallen brothers. Let's all come together and honor the families who have paid that ultimate price for our energy needs and hope that this is the last such disaster we must face."

The band released their second disc, "Reckless Habits," in March. GAT plays swampy blues, progressive bluegrass, funky New Orleans strut, Southern boogie, honky tonk, gospel and rock. The current lineup includes Herman, keyboardist Chad Staehly, guitarist Jim Lewin, bassist Brian Adams and drummer Chris Sheldon.