Young band with 'old souls' to play in Sumter on Saturday

The Red Clay Strays from Southern Alabama will bring their Southern rock and country music to the Sumter Opera House on Saturday. Their 7:30 p.m. concert will feature tunes from their new album titled Admiral Bean Stylings, as well as a few covers.

Although they've been together for just over two years, the Strays, as they're called by fans, have gained a wide following with their combination of Southern rock, blues and country and even a little gospel. Their name comes from the South's red clay, especially that of Alabama, but common in many areas, including South Carolina, reflecting their roots rock style.

The Nashville Music Guide wrote that the band is "Backed by a tight, dynamic rhythm section ... lead singer Brandon Coleman is built like a young Randy Travis possessed by Elvis, Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis. He can deliver the goods, mesmerizing audiences."

An online review described the Strays as " Southern funk with a healthy dose of Bakersfield mixed in and delivered in a pocket groove that is tight and well-articulated."

A listen to their original music at www.redclaystrays.com reveals influences of such artists as Bob Seger, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Allman Brothers, Waylon Jennings, Elvis Presley, Stevie Ray Vaughan and others.

They are currently on a tour of the Southeast, and "While the Red Clay Strays have visited all along the Southern coast, this is their first trek to the Midlands of South Carolina," said Sumter Opera House Cultural Manager Seth Reimer "Their vibe and their sounds are contagious. Not only musically talented, this is a band you need to see perform. Everyone that takes a chance on this up-and-coming young band is going to be blown away!"

The young Strays are known for their stage presence and for sharing the stories of their tour experiences on their "low budget." They've played venues from dive bars to festivals and larger music halls and are known for their humorous posts on social media.

In addition to Coleman, The Red Clay Strays comprise Zach Richel on lead guitar, John W. Hall on drums, Andrew Bishop on bass and Drew Nix on backing vocals, rhythm guitar and harmonica.

The Red Clay Strays will perform at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the Sumter Opera House, 21 N. Main St. Tickets are $20 and $25. For more information about visit www.SumterOperaHouse.com online or call (803) 436-2616.