Customer Reviews

Split Lip Rayfield

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This album is a perfect blend of traditional bluegrass and contemporary themes. The songs have soul and a sense of humor. Most of the songs are fast and it's almost impossible to sit still(or stay sober) while listening to them. The music is not over produced so the songs retain a home made sound. The musicians are tallented which helps to organize the album. No one but a tallented bassist could make that stitch giver thing sound as good as it does. They are not self conscious or stuck on themselves but they are not afraid to demonstrate their pickin' dexterity either. I've seen them in concert too, they have an easy way about them that allows them to win over the toughest crowd. Even skateboard punk rockers have been charmed by them.

Wichita Kansas' own Split Lip Rayfield have a truly unique sound going for them. They are not your typical "Insugent Country" formula band. Rather, they have a unique "subversive" bluegrass sound and energetic live performance. Not your father's bluegrass!!!

I probably even know them! Please buy this CD not only because of it's "unique" blend of bluegrass and speed, but also because they are friends of mine and have lots of kids to feed.

It's hard to describe how I felt the first time I heard this CD. I had never heard anything like it before and I've been a musician for more than 25 years. This is an incredible debut from one of the best bands of the last 20 years. I feel bad only giving it 4 stars but the next two studio albums are even better so I felt the rating was accurate. The songs on this CD are the foundation of this band and their live shows. You really get a taste of Jeff (Gas Tank Bass) and Kirk (Guitar) and how they write and work together. Eric (Banjo) brings a wonderful flavor to the group and the trio is tight, fast and furious. The only problem with this album is Wayne Gottstine had not joined the group yet so his song writing, singing and lightning fast mandolin playing are absent from this entry. However, this is still a great album and is the best starting point for anybody who wants to get into this band. The songs are very unique just like the group itself. Do yourself a favor and buy this CD!

Thats right yall, The bassist (Jeff) plays the meanest and hardest I have ever seen.(and with only 1 string) This album is dripping with jelly & butter like a hot fresh biscuit! My fav. Track is "Tuth & Lies" You cnnot help but want to sing along or dance some hillbilly hop you have never even tried before, just for the sake of gettin' down. Bluegrass this style could make me a fan for life!