Sol Driven Train
Sol Driven Train is a 5-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 melodious rock.
Sol Driven Train was first sighted in 2000 on Folly Beach, though its members have a musical history dating back to middle school band. All of the band 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 bands dynamism 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.
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. Though phylogeny is still unclear at this time, some have suggested evolutionary descent from groups such as The Allman Brothers, The Band, Carlos Santana, Stevie Wonder, and Bob Marley and the Wailers.
Some of the bands extensive original repertoire is featured on two studio recordings. The self-titled debut album was released in 2001, followed by Churning Burlward in 2003. Sol Driven Train has performed at a variety of venues including Charlestons Alive After Five Concert Series, First Night Charleston, Piccolo Spoleto, The Windjammer, Cumberlands, The Joint (Clemson) as well as numerous bars, clubs, charity events, and parties in North and South Carolina. The band has developed a devoted following in Charleston and Clemson, and is currently focusing on expanding their fan base throughout the southeast.
What others have said about Sol Driven Train:
“Sol Driven Train is a great local band that features a sound that falls somewhere between Jimmy Buffett and Phish. There is a definite island vibe running throughout its music, but the horn section provided by saxophonist Russell Clarke and trombonist Ward Buckheister packs a ska/funk punch that makes the band something more than just a boat drink combo.”
-Grant, Devin. Live Oak grows on Bowens Island. Post and Courier 15 Sept 2005. 7F.
“One of the best local gigs going these days happens every Sunday night at Oceansong Café on the IOP with acoustic reggae-roots rockers Sol Driven Train.”
-Oliver, Kevin. The Beat. Charlestons Free Times 18 May 14 June 2005. p23.
“Just as their sound has evolved into the brass heavy and world beat rhythms they now emit, Sol Driven Train is ready to take their music to the next level of national exposure. If so, they surely deserve all the success but will likely again be missed until their anticipated return (to Charleston, SC).”
-Vari, Jeff. Sol Driven Train chugs along past obstacles. Moultrie News 13 April 2005. 12A. (read less)
