I see it more as a personnel change, also. KC is really the only original member and she plays music with various other people. I don't think Uncle Earl is really a fulltime gig for either KC or Kristin and it certainly is far from the primary gig for Paula. Stephanie is an old time fiddler for sure but she's much younger and working on getting herself established in the old time circuits.
Abby is moving in different musical directions and spending more time in/on China. Plus, I believe both are now in long term, commited relationships. I believe that Abby and Bela are gettin' hitched, if it's not already happened. Rayna and her feller just moved back to Asheville which means more old time fiddling from her.
I'm looking forward to seeing the G'Earls twice before the new year. Gotta get my tickets for NYE show of Stringdusters and G'Earls, AKA String of Earls, or is it G'Earldusters?????? Wahoo!!!!!