The Red Clay Strays

UPGRADED TO AN OUTDOOR SHOW! EVENT FAQ'S BELOW.

Hailing from Mobile, Alabama, The Red Clay Strays – Brandon Coleman (lead vocals, guitar), Drew Nix (guitar and vocals), Zach Rishel (guitar), Andrew Bishop (bass) and John Hall (drums) – bonded as young, working-class men raised on Lynyrd Skynyrd riffs and the songs of Sturgill Simpson. Anchored by Coleman, whose voice channels country gold and old-school rock ‘n’ roll soul, the Strays cut its teeth with gigs on sticky barroom floors.

With a sound straddling fiery Southern rock riffs, tender-hearted soul music and tried-and-true country crooning, the Strays rose from backroad Gulf Coast gigs to become one of the most sought-after acts in country and rock circles. Backed by crowdfunding campaigns for recording and touring (a nod of the dedicated following built during years of do-it-yourself road-dogging), the band self-released debut album, Moment of Truth, in 2022. The album featured a handful of what quickly became staple songs for the band: “Stone’s Throw,” “Do Me Wrong” and “Wondering Why,” among others. “Wondering Why” gained viral attention on TikTok, propelling the song to peak in the top 10 on Billboard’s Hot Rock and Alternative songs chart, as well as inside the top 20 of the Hot Country Songs chart. The album also helped earn the band a nomination for Emerging Artist of the Year at the upcoming 2024 Americana Honors & Awards.

The success of Moment of Truth led to the Strays inking a deal with RCA Records and enlisting Cobb – known for his work with Chris Stapleton, Brandi Carlile, Greta Van Fleet, Jason Isbell and more – to produce Made by These Moments. The band and Cobb cut the album at the producer’s home studio in Savannah, Georgia, largely tracking live in Cobb’s living room. Listeners hear the result on lively numbers like the speaker-scorching blues rocker “Ramblin’” and throwback country-rock jam “Wasting Time” – songs with the power to pull\listeners from couches and long commutes to feel like they’re sitting next to the band at a rowdy recording session.

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FAQ’s

EVENT INFORMATION

Bar on the Hill – Outdoor Stage

1. Proof of Age: A valid I.D. is required for all 18+ ticket holders.

2. Outdoor Event Notice: The Forecourt (Park on the Hill) is an outdoor venue with limited shelter. Please dress appropriately and be prepared for all weather conditions.

3. Weather Policy: In the event of heavy rain or extreme weather, performances may be paused. Patrons will be directed to seek cover inside Bar on the Hill and under the balconies. Emergency evacuation plans will be activated by event staff and security if necessary.

4. Bag Checks: All bags will be checked on entry. No alcohol or food is permitted. Sealed water bottles are allowed.

5. Chairs and Blankets: Chairs, blankets, and similar items are not permitted inside the event.

6. Food and Drink Policy: No external food or beverages may be brought into the venue. (Sealed water bottles are the only exception.)

7. Wristbands: If issued a wristband upon entry, it must be worn at all times during the event.

8. Payment Options: Cash is accepted for food, drinks, and merchandise purchases. All major cards are also accepted at Bar on the Hill.

9. Parking: For parking information, please visit the Newcastle University Parking Website (link recommended if possible).

10. Responsible Service of Alcohol: RSA laws apply. Patrons exhibiting intoxication or stockpiling drinks may be asked to leave without refund.

11. Food and Beverage: A wide range of food and drink options will be available, including vegan and vegetarian meals.

12. Getting Home: Please arrange your transport home before the event.

13. Behaviour Policy: Newcastle University is a safe and inclusive space. Aggressive, rude, or inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated. No refunds will be provided if you are asked to leave.

14. Respect Others: Share your space, be mindful of those around you, and treat everyone with respect.

15. Hydration and Wellbeing: Look after yourself and each other. Drink plenty of water and take breaks if needed.

16. Dress Code: Steel-capped boots and offensive clothing may result in denied entry or being asked to change/remove items before re-entry.