The Waybacks

The Waybacks Members, Gear & Sound

Members

Select a The Waybacks band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.

About

The Waybacks are a dynamic ensemble originating from San Francisco, known for their genre-blurring approach to bluegrass, Americana, folk, and newgrass. The band features James Nash on lead guitar, mandolin, and vocals, Chojo Jacques on fiddle, mandolin, guitar, and Humanatone, and Stevie Coyle on rhythm, fingerpicked, and Weissenborn slide guitar, along with vocals. The rhythm section is held down by Joe Kyle, Jr. on double bass and vocals, and Chuck Hamilton on drums. Their music is a rich tapestry of sounds, where traditional string band music meets an eclectic variety of influences, resulting in a fresh and vibrant soundscape.

How to Sound Like The Waybacks

The Waybacks’ sound is characterized by its intricate acoustic arrangements and lively, genre-defying energy. The group often blends traditional string instruments with a flair for improvisation and eclectic styles, creating a fusion that is both nostalgic and innovative. Acoustic guitars and mandolins are central to their sound, delivering crisp, melodic lines enriched by the dynamic interplay between fiddle and guitar. Their arrangements favor clean, articulate tones, allowing each instrument's voice to shine through while maintaining a cohesive ensemble feel. To emulate their sound, musicians might focus on the use of warm, resonant acoustic instruments and explore a variety of playing techniques to capture the vibrant, spontaneous energy that defines The Waybacks. The rhythm section’s buoyant, yet grounded approach provides a flexible foundation, making room for the spontaneous, playful dynamics that are a hallmark of their performances.

Discography

Similar Artists

Danny Barnes

Danny Barnes

Guitarist · Bad Livers

John Cowan

John Cowan

Bassist · The Doobie Brothers

Acoustic Syndicate

Acoustic Syndicate

Dom Flemons

Dom Flemons

Guitarist · Carolina Chocolate Drops

Vassar Clements

Vassar Clements

Composer · The Nashville A-Team