PREVIEW

Railsplitters, The Lights, Andover

BLUEGRASS may be a genre that has defined American music since the 1940’s, but that doesn’t mean there’s no room for progression and experimentation.

The Railsplitters may take inspiration from iconic names, but modernisation has morphed their sound into something altogether more exciting.

Hailing from the Rocky Mountains front range in Boulder, Colorado, the quintet draws on a range of influences including folk/roots, Americana, modern pop, and rock and roll, as well as bluegrass pioneers like Bill Monroe and Earl Scruggs.

Featuring banjo, mandolin, fiddle, guitar and upright bass, The Railsplitters seek to push the boundaries of their traditional bluegrass roots into something much more modern. A combination of lush harmonies, instrumental virtuosity and non-conformist songwriting, The Railsplitters deftly demonstrate what happens when musical influences ranging from samba to hip hop merge with traditional Appalachian music.

This is music for the open road, the open dance floor, and open ears - music of the American West, made for all.

Tickets for the 8pm show tomorrow cost £13. For more information and to book tickets, call The Lights on 01264 368368 or visit, thelights.org.uk.