Mountain music at Neurolux

Railroad Earth, a six-piece newgrass band from New Jersey who got their name from a Jack Kerouac poem, played a couple of blazing sets to a semi-packed Neurolux last Monday night.

Seldom is the musical genre of bluegrass and the Neurolux ever used in the same sentence. The club is better known for its punk and alternative sensibilities. But historically, rock-a-billy music has done well there. So, why not book some good ol’ mountain music. After all, this is Idaho.

Railroad Earth is on the road promoting their debut album, “The Black Bear Sessions,” which is gaining popularity with college-aged listeners. The band’s lead vocalist and guitarist, Todd Sheaffer, wrote eight out of the 10 tracks. They also cover a Tom Waits song, “Cold Water,” on the album. And “Colorado” was co-written by Sheaffer and banjo player Andy Goessling.

“The song started with a banjo riff and some banjo chords that Andy had,” Sheaffer said.

“We remodeled it together, and I started singing to it, which is how I write.”

The Boys from Stanhope, N.J. produces a unique blend of bluegrass, folk and rock, which translates well on stage.

“The crowds at our shows have been great. They really get into the groove of our music, as well as enjoying the melodic content,” Sheaffer said.

In the last year, Railroad Earth has played at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, High Sierra Music Festival, Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival and Harvest Fest.

Last Monday’s show was Railroad Earth’s first time ever playing in Boise, but expect to see more of this high-energy sextet in the future.

J. Patrick Kelly

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