Welcome to an exciting Music Monday feature with the Shootouts to discuss their creative process and the success of their latest album launch for their third album in five years, Stampede. Since the release of their 2019 debut album Quick Draw, the Shootouts have been busy. They’ve toured heavily, performing their notoriously energetic live shows with not only Asleep at the Wheel, but a wide range of artists including Sheryl Crow, Steve Earle, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Chris Isaak, Charley Crockett, Dale Watson, Lake Street Dive, and more.
CLN: Can you give our audience a brief introduction to your band (how you came together, individual stories if applicable, and how you got started in music?
The Shootouts got their start in 2015 when I met Brian Poston and we bonded over our love for real, tradition-based country music. This was meant to be a side project, but from the very first show, it was pretty clear this was going to be more than that. Since then we’ve had the opportunity to work with some of our heroes and make three albums.
CLN: As a four-member band, what is it like being a part of the music industry? What’s been your favorite part? How is it different than being a solo performer?
My favorite part of being in a band is the creative process that we all share in. We work out everything together — shaping songs, picking and arranging songs, and sometimes writing together too. That’s something that is very hard to do on a regular basis as a solo artist.
CLN: Can you tell us a little bit more about the Shootout’s music style?
We’ve been described as country music for people who don’t like country. We blend honky tonk, Western swing, roots rock, traditional country, and rockabilly and filter that through our Northeast Ohio roots.
CLN: You recently came out with your newest album, Stampede, can you tell me a little more about how this album came together and what it means to the band?
Stampede came about quickly, right on the heels of releasing our album Bullseye in 2021. A mutual friend connected us with Ray Benson, and next thing you know — we’re making a record with Ray and his son Sam behind the board. It was a wonderful experience, made even more special by some of the friends who joined us like Marty Stuart, Buddy Miller, Jim Lauderdale, and Raul Malo.
CLN: What does your process look like for creating new music?
The Shootouts is a bit of a collective when it comes to how we create an album. I write a lot of our songs, as does our longtime collaborator, mentor, and friend Al Moss. All the instrumental songs are written by Brian Poston. Occasionally we’ll put our own spin on a choice cover song too. Much like the last two albums, “Stampede” follows that same mold.
CLN: Can you describe the feeling of debuting at the Grand Ole Opry? In addition, what’s next for the Shootouts?
It was the best night of our lives. To play your own music for 4,400 folks — and to have so many fans, family, and friends there to help us celebrate — really made for a special, unforgettable evening. As for the rest of the year, we plan on supporting Stampede with a ton of tour dates. Coming to a city near you soon!
To learn more about their new album, including limited edition vinyl, which is available at Shootoutsmusic.com
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