Rosco Bandana

Rosco Bandana are a Mississippi septet rooted in alternative country and bar-rock. The group forms around songwriter Jason Sanford and develops from a mix of teenage rebellion, heartbreak, local friendships and a do-it-yourself approach to making music.

Formation and early lineup

The project begins with Sanford, who teaches himself guitar in defiance of a strict Christian upbringing. A conversation in a tobacco store in a Gulfport mall introduces him to a different set of musical influences, including Elliott Smith, Bright Eyes, Iron and Wine and Neutral Milk Hotel. Around the same period, a breakup with Emily Sholes provides material for his early songs.

Childhood friend Barry Pribyl Jr. returns to Mississippi from Michigan, initially bringing a metal background to the partnership. As Sanford and Pribyl start playing together, the band’s sound takes shape, mixing rough-edged roots rock with country influences. They later expand the lineup through an open mic night at a wine bar and jam sessions at an abandoned house.

Line-up and collaborators

Jennifer Flint joins the group and becomes a key vocal presence, providing a contrast to Sanford’s singing. Emily Sholes also becomes part of the band. Flint says she first meets Sanford in 2006, when he is playing in one of his early bands.

The band wins a Battle of the Bands contest sponsored by Hard Rock and then travels to Los Angeles to record its debut with producer Greg Collins at The Nook Studio. Collins is known for work with U2, Red Hot Chili Peppers and No Doubt.

Sound and recordings

Rosco Bandana’s music draws on Uncle Tupelo-style bar-room rock and more modern country songwriting, with loose, ragged arrangements alongside more reflective material. Their version of Blur’s “Tender” is reworked as a gospel-leaning hymn, while their original songs include “Time to Begin,” the first song Sanford, Pribyl and Flint write together. “El Luna” carries a minor-key melody with comparisons to Elliott Smith and Abbey Road-era Beatles, and “Woe is Me” is described as a country stomp with a Depression-era feel and a strong backbeat.

The band presents both louder, rowdier material and quieter, more contemplative songs, with Sanford, Pribyl and Flint each stressing honesty and emotional connection in the writing and performance.