Focusing on instrumentals, using improvisational abilities normally found only in jazz circles, this multitalented foursome can groove with well-crafted songs and musicianship that borrows from the musical diversity of bluegrass, Tex-Mex and high-energy classic rock.

     The band consists of Jevon Daly, 26, on lead guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle and vocals; Gavan Daly, 24, on percussion, autoharp, trumpet, trombone and vocals; Jeremy Bitler, 23, on bass and vocals; and 16-year-old prodigy Benjamin Vaught on rhythm guitar and vocals.

     Vaught, who has been with the band for a year is taking accelerated advanced-placement classes at Hilton Head High School so he can graduate next month. Bitler joined the band just four months ago.

     The Daly Planet will be performing a special show May 2 at Dunnagan's Alley Theatre. The performance will open with an acoustic set at 7:30 p.m. and climax with an electric second set.

     Founded in 1994, these emerging artists are currently performing throughout their home Palmetto State, as well as North Carolina, Florida, and Georgia. They'll be branching out this summer to such exotic locales as Boston and Indiana, Jevon Daly said.

     "On the road. That's where the fun is," he said, a manic gleam in his eye. "Sleepin' on the floor! Starvin!"

     But seriously, folks, he knows that's how the band will get its name out.

     The Daly brothers come from a musical clan. Their parents used to perform with them, in fact, with Dad on bass and Mom on vocals. From them, they inherited an affection for and devotion to bluegrass - "the authentic stuff, not the corny recreations," Jevon Daly said.

     One of the most ambitious young groups around, The Daly Planet has already released two CD's of original music. "Keeping it in The Family" was released in the summer of 1996 after a three-day recording session. It features 15 tracks described by music critics as "jam-heavy."

     "Working My Troubles Away" was released last fall. Produced by the Daly brothers, it showcases the band's many diverse influences and creative song arrangements.

     They hope to get back into the recording studio soon to start work on their third CD, which so far is untitled.

     "We're constantly writing material," Jevon Daly said. "We can't stop."

     Live performances are full of energy, dancing, and improvisation. Jevon Daly says. The group performs 35 originals and covers of more than 50 other tunes. The musicians often bring their audiences through waves of emotions, influenced by the likes of John Coltrane, Miles Davis, the Grateful Dead, Weather Report, The Band, and the Allman Brothers Band.

     "One thing is for sure," said their promoter-manager, Dave Regan, referring to one of their more popular cuts "The Daly Planet will leave you 'Floating Around' in a world you won't want to leave."