Sol Driven Train is a 6-headed musical monster emerging from the swampy South Carolina Lowcountry. Generally seen at night in clubs and bars around the Carolinas, it can be identified by its distinctive call: a blend of fiery world-beat, southern funk, and melodic rock. Listeners Beware!! Several researchers attempting to study the Train have succumb to its hypnotic call and found themselves twitching and gesticulating uncontrollably on the dance floor. Reports of punchy horns, three part vocal harmonies, and a slamming rhythm section are common. Often mistaken in the field for the genus Jamus bandus, the careful observer will note an emphasis on songs and lyrical message that separates Sol Driven Train from the herd. Though phylogeny is still unclear at this time, some have suggested evolutionary descent from groups such as Paul Simon, Little Feat, The Band, Buena Vista Social Club, Stevie Wonder, and Bob Marley and the Wailers.
Sol Driven Train was first sighted in 2000 on Folly Beach, though its members have a musical history dating back to middle school band. The lineup consists of Russell Clarke on saxophone and vocals; Ward Buckheister on trombone, guitar, and vocals; Joel Timmons on guitar and vocals; Rusty Cole on bass; Phill Eason on drums, keys, and vocals; and Philip Antman on percussion. All of the band’s members contribute to the songwriting, with Russell, Ward, and Joel sharing the majority of the lead vocals. The constantly shifting lead role along with the band’s multi-instrumental talent, make live shows an exciting, eclectic experience. The joy of childhood friends writing and performing music together is apparent and quite contagious when Sol Driven Train takes the stage.
Some of the band’s extensive original repertoire is featured on three studio recordings (pictured below). The self-titled debut album was released in 2001, followed by Churning Burlward in 2003. Tajar Tracks, a children’s album recorded with pianist Debbie Debord at Camp Gwynn Valley in Brevard, NC was released in December 2005. Sol Driven Train has performed at a wide variety of venues from Florida to Virginia, and has a diverse sound which can be tailored to fit the room and event. Some of the band’s favorite performances have been at Charleston’s Alive After 5 Concert Series, First Night Charleston, The Windjammer, The Jewish Mother, The White Squirrel Festival, and at Camp Gwynn Valley for younger boys and girls. They have played shows with diverse artists such as The Samples, The Blue Dogs, Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band, Billy Jonas, Ryan Montbleau, and Chubby Carrier.
In the fall of 2005, Sol Driven Train made the commitment to become a full-time band, and has been touring rigorously since. This is a truly “indie” band, with band members handling all management, booking, and promotions responsibilities. With the formation of Sol Driven Train, llc., a busy summer tour, a scheduled appearance at the Lake Eden Arts Festival in October, and plans to go back into the studio this fall, 2006 has been a year of exciting growth for the band. Playing 3-6 nights per week around the southeast, Sol Driven Train is establishing itself as one of the region’s hardest working and most promising up-and-coming acts.
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