The current five-person lineup of Yellow Banks started with happenstance practices and eventually became a cohesive group with a unique sound.
“We all know what we bring to the table and what the other person brings,” guitarist Scott Ethridge said. “… If there’s an idea, then I’m thinking of how I can hear everybody in the band, and we all look at the other person and think where they could fit in.”
The group describes itself as a country and western band with elements of rockabilly and funk in its artistry. This melded sound opens itself to creating a unique sound.
As lead vocalist and guitarist James Elliott said, a big key to success is any ego being left at the door when they start rehearsal.
“Nobody tries to overstep; everybody stays in their lane. They know their role. Then the chemistry melds everyone together nicely,” Elliott said.
Bassist and vocalist Matthew Jeremy Smith, drummer Redd Flynnt, and steel guitarist Tristan Howard round out Yellow Banks.
Elliott said his role fits best as the community guy — scheduling and booking everything — yet Ethridge said it’s being the best rhythm guitarist he has worked with. Etheridge said Elliott brings a sense of creativity to how the band composes covers and original music.
The two noted that almost all members have a secondary schtick within the group, which raises Yellow Banks’ overall ability to collaborate more.
“That’s not something you can do unless you have good chemistry with the group. They all are listening to what the other players are playing instead of just focusing on what they’re doing. Everything we do is very much in the peripheral view of what the other is doing,” Ethridge said.
The collaborative nature fared well when they produced their debut album, “Corner of First and Lonely.” The creative process was rushed more than they’d desired, but Elliot and Ethridge said it still turned out to be a vital piece representing the group’s strengths.
Elliott said the album was well-received among their fanbase. Over the last year, they have worked to build up their following on Facebook and streaming services to help with exposure.
The work has resulted in thousands of followers on social media and more than 31,000 Spotify streams on their album, something Elliott takes pride in.
“That’s fairly successful for a bunch of nobodies. We’re not nationally known, but we’re able to get out and travel a little bit with it, and we’ve gotten some nice shows with it,” Elliott said.
As they have continued to do different shows throughout the area, Elliot said it feels surreal to play songs the crowd can sing back to the band.
“That is, to me, such an insane idea that I never even thought it would happen. It wasn’t even something that would have ever crossed my mind that we were putting the album out, and one day, people will be singing along to it,” Elliott said.
Keep up with the band on their website.
