Railroad Earth is a new-grass American band that plays very peaceful music. New grass music is similar to blue grass, just with more jazz elements and a unique spin. They are made up of seven band members who all synthesize their string instruments to make music. They perfectly play in tune and sync, which makes their music mesmerizing to listen to, especially when you need something to calm you down.
Todd Shaefer, lead guitarist, formed the band in 2001 with a bunch of friends who just enjoyed playing instruments. They all had individual goals of playing instruments and making music, so they joined together as a group of friends to do just that.
They formed in Stillwater, New Jersey, and almost immediately started recording music at their local studio. Railroad Earth is one of those bands that not many people know about.
They are a small band that does not seek out a lot of mainstream publicity. Instead of seeking out popularity, they strive to optimistically influence others with their music. My dad showed me some of their songs when I was young and ever since I have been very attached to their music.
One of Railroad Earth’s catchiest songs is “Been Down This Road”, which was displayed on their fifth album, “Amen Corner”. This song starts off with a guitar riff that is overall just bright and warm. The opening C chord features many hammer ons and pull offs that give the song flavor and depth.
The way this song sounds and the lyrics Shaefer uses, makes me feel like it is about learning a lesson and not making the same mistakes again, or, going back down the same road. A line from the song that illustrates that to me is, “…I’d love to open the door, but I, can’t go there, anymore…”. This to me, means being able to let go of something or someone and not look back on the decision because in the end it was what needed to be done for you as a person.
The song then progresses through choruses and verses that are composed of fitting lyrics. One of the band’s most prevalent strong suits is the use of so many instruments. They all are playing in the same key which adds so much instrumental value and intricacy. This aspect of the band is what I believe adds such a restful and tranquil feeling.
Shaefer opens almost every song with a guitar sequence that sets the mood and gives you a quick sneak peek as to what’s to come. Following these intros, the rest of the band jumps in with instruments such as the standup bass, fiddle, banjo, mandolin, and drums.
“Storms” is another one of Railroad Earth’s songs that I really enjoyed listening to for the first time.. The repeating verse throughout the song is “…but all these storms I know will weather, all these storms we’ll ride together…”.
The message and theme that I got from this song is just the importance of always sticking with somebody or something to persevere through an issue. No matter the scale or significance of whatever it may be you have to overcome, in the end, they are all just storms that will pass over with time.
Railroad Earth is a band that I love listening to no matter the mood I’m in, however if I am down, out of energy, or stressed, they always lift my mood. I think it is because their music is so calm and relaxing, with the blending of such beautiful string instruments to make songs.
Another thing that I appreciate about Railroad Earth is that their songs have deep meaning that helps me cope with things and have insight on issues that I struggle with. They overall just lift me up and inspire me to be a better person and musician.
Railroad Earth is a smaller band that many have never heard of, and I hope that this article can encourage others to give their music a taste. I believe that their music will do nothing but have a positive impact, with a lesson that sticks with you long after the song is over.
