Woodenbox

Woodenbox is a Scottish country-rock group from central Scotland. It begins as a project under the name Woodenbox, before the wider band forms and adopts the longer title Woodenbox with a Fistful of Fivers. The group starts playing together at the beginning of 2008 and is fronted by Ali Downer.

Line-up

The band includes Ali Downer, Nick Dudman on drums and ukulele, Fraser McKirdy on bass and organ, Phil Cardwell on trumpet, Jordan Croan on electric guitar, and Sam Evans on saxophone. The brass section, made up of trumpet and saxophone, is one of the features that sets the group apart from other local bands.

Style and influences

Woodenbox works in a country-rock style and aims for a sound that differs from its recorded material when played live. The band describes its approach as one that combines song-writing with experimentation in arrangement and performance. Its influences include experimental folk and blues acts such as Captain Beefheart and Dr Dog, as well as The Phantom Band. Downer also cites the soundtracks of Ennio Morricone, inspired by Sergio Leone films, as part of the band’s musical background.

Live reputation

The group develops a reputation for raucous live performances. Its members emphasise a varied, energetic stage show and a different feel from the studio versions of their songs.