If you’ve never attended a performance by Jim Gaudet and The Railroad Boys, you’re missing out on one of the Capital Region’s true musical treasures.

This group makes you feel as if you’re traveling in time—maybe back to Louisiana in 1963. Mel Guarino of The Bluebillies said, “There is no other band that I know that can sound so modern and yet so classic and nostalgic. It’s at once ‘old timey’ and ‘timeless’—echoing the sound and feel of maybe Hank Williams or the Stanley Brothers, with a ‘hillbilly’ edge.”

The Railroad Boys share their talents on guitar, mandolin, piano, bass, fiddle and backing vocals. And, although they started out as bluegrass, the group has now morphed into what Jim calls “hillbilly rock ’n’ roll.”

In his writing, Jim does it all: Americana, roots, classic and outlaw country, southern rock, honky tonk, blues and cajun. And Jim’s uniquely animated conversational style of singing is every bit as original as the songs he writes.

The Railroad Boys believe audience participation leads to a deeper and more meaningful connection. You’ll typically hear everyone whooping it up during songs like the band’s signature shout-along titled “So Far So Good” or dancing to “If It Ain’t Cajun.” Through music and story, the band and audience become one big down-home family.

This free show is sponsored by Troy Sand & Gravel and Bonded Concrete. Email susanne@slca-ctp.org for reservations.

May 10 at 7:30 p.m.

Join us for Summer Solstice, an AP Live event hosted by SLCA. Simon Elijah takes the stage at 7 p.m., opening the show for Passing grade and 10:01.

Proceeds to fund AP Live Music & Arts Festival on July 26 at Butler Park. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase.

Advance tickets $8; $10 cash only at the door. You won’t want to miss it!

June 27 at 7 p.m.