Lucky Stars

The Lucky Stars is a conspicuously anachronistic western hillbilly ensemble, falling somewhere in between Uncle Tupelo, Brian Setzer, and Spike Jones on the spectrum of country & western music. With energetic, danceable riffs and an easy going approachable demeanor, these young Southern Californians enjoy riding into town with ten-gallon hats and no lack of irony in their attitudes.The group is led by the acoustic guitars and upbeat vocal stylings of Sage Guyton, a man who prides himself on his "wayward way with words." Joining him are Jeremy Wakefield on steel guitars, Mooney Harding on bass fiddle, and Whitey Anderson on piano and accordion. The Lucky Stars have made a name for themselves as one of the hottest throwbacks in alternative country, mixing the upbeat swing of pre-rock country with the detached, playful sensibilities of a younger hipster generation. In 1996, the band produced their first EP, released on Bucket-Lid records. This first record hinted at their potential, particularly on the cover of Zeb Turner's "No More Nuthin'." Four years and many gigs later, they signed to Ipecac records, Mike Patton's asylum for the musically eccentric, socially deviant, and outright ridiculous. While undoubtedly a big career change, their first full-length CD, Hollywood & Western, proved that they hadn't gone over the deep end just yet. They get a little rowdy on Hollywood & Western, but never lose their trademark tongue-in-cheek charm. ~ Kieran McCarthy, All Music Guide