The Railsplitters
Album: The Faster It Goes
Label: Self Released
Tracks: 12
Website: http://www.therailsplitters.com

I first heard of The Railsplitters from another musician; always a good sign. Tia McGraff's husband Tommy Parham is, like The Railsplitters, from Colorado and he was raving about them. Needless to say, I was excited to have a listen.

The Railsplitters are a young five some, who hail from The Colorado Rockies. Lauren Stovall, Leslie Ziegler, Christine King, Peter Sharpe and Dusty Rider (a name that seems too good to be true considering the band name!) They seem to have just appeared from nowhere, yet it transpires that this is in fact their second CD release; Sounding like they have been around for years, their talent clearly belies their years.

Their newest album, The Faster It Goes, was self produced, with the help of Gabe Witcher, (Punch Brothers), and together they effortlessly and beautifully combine guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle and upright bass, to create a sound that is very much their own; old style traditional and modern juxtaposed to create a striking depth and contrast.

Having travelled on numerous USA trains, including a sleeper, it strikes me that their name fits their music, as their sound evokes the sound and sensation of being on a train, rolling across the landscape. Escapism at its finest.

From dance tunes to ballads standout tracks include Tilt A Whirl, Salt Salt Sea, The Estuary and the hidden surprise at the end which I will leave you to discover for yourselves.

I am beyond intrigued to see what is next for The Railsplitters; hopefully some UK dates and another album before too long. In the meanwhile, let's all enjoy this one as much as it deserves! I will also be tracking down a copy of their debut release.

Helen Mitchell