Susto are an American indie band who have managed to build their own following with their individual take on alt-country and americana that reflects the fact that they were formed in Charleston, South Carolina. Justin Osbourne is the frontman and prime songwriter of the band and is also the guiding force behind Susto Stringband, which he formed after moving to Asheville, North Carolina. He was so enamoured with the local music scene that he formed Susto Stringband with local Asheville musicians, with the aim of playing his Susto songs with bluegrass and old-time arrangements. Americana UK’s Martin Johnson caught up with Justin Osbourne at his new home in Texas to discuss the background to Susto Stringband and their new album Susto Stringband (Volume 2). He explains that while he was aware of bluegrass and old-time music through gospel music, Ralph Stanley, and Bill Monroe, he has only recently delved deeper into the genre. The Susto Stringband has revitalised his interest in creating music after he felt stuck during COVID, which is one of the reasons they have recorded a second album. Justin explains that the new album was recorded at various studios between North Carolina and Texas over the period of about a year. There is obvious pride when he explains how Morgan Wade shared the vocals on Hard Drugs from the new album. Finally, Justin makes it clear that Susto String Band does not mean the end of Susto the band.
Susto Stringband’s “Susto Stringband (Volume 2)” is out now on Missing Piece Records.
