Rayland Baxter’s newest album, Wide Awake. Photo by www.amazon.com
“…I can’t imagine a life without sounds.” – Rayland Baxter
I think the thing that stands out most about Rayland Baxter is his general ‘hipster’ vibe. His music is a blend of mystical melodies and heartfelt lyrics that produce a feeling of belongingness in the natural world. Basically, the raw simplicity of his songs make him hard not to like. Additionally, Baxter’s scruffy look and friendly face helps his case as a fan-favorite.
Baxter’s down-to-earth style can be attributed to his upbringing in Nashville, Tennessee. It was there where he spent most of his time outdoors and playing sports, like lacrosse. Eventually, Rayland Baxter went to school for the sport, but his career soon came to an end after a brutal knee injury. It was at this point when Baxter’s interest in music became more than just a hobby. After years of soul-searching and composing his best lyrics, he unofficially released his original music (during this time, he had been playing gigs at bars and other small venues in Creede, Colorado, and his hometown of Nashville). Finally, by the end of 2012, his first album, Feathers & FishHooks, was produced by a public record label: ATO Records.
Baxter’s first album, Feathers & FishHooks. Photo by www.amazon.com
Rayland Baxter slowly produced a second album, Imaginary Man, in 2015, and finally his third album, Wide Awake, in 2018. The craftmanship behind each of his albums, and each of his songs in fact, is something to be noted. Even if they are just catchy tunes (like his hit song, “Olivia”), the degree of thought and care that goes into each line is special. This is why Rayland Baxter is undoubtedly thriving in this new scene of music.
References:
Ben's Music 
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