Country Fried Rock 1517: Mason Lankford of Folk Family Revival Summer Tour Insights

Summary

In this episode from 2015, we catch up with Mason Lankford from the Texas-based band Folk Family Revival to talk about the band’s evolving sound, especially with their new album Water Walker. Mason shares how this latest record marks a real shift from their earlier work, both stylistically and creatively.

We dig into how the band approaches making music, especially the role live performance plays in shaping their songs before they ever hit the studio. Mason talks about finding the balance between experimenting in the studio and letting songs grow naturally through playing them live.

As they head out on their summer tour, the band is excited to bring this new, more psychedelic sound to audiences. It’s clear they’re in a phase of growth and exploration, and Water Walker is a big step forward in that journey.

What We Wrote in 2015

Folk Family Revival consists of three brothers and their buddy, but they are definitely moving towards psychedelic rock rather than straight-up folk with their sophomore album, Waterwalker, out now on Rock Ridge Music. With a homemade liquid light show from a visually talented friend, the luxury of regular studio access, and no external time constraints on recording, Folk Family Revival leaps into new territory. The songs continue to grow, both intentionally and for diverse audiences ranging from post-line dance classes in a legendary Texas roadhouse to sportsbars, finding ways to keep audiences engaged and the music fresh.

Show Notes

• This episode of Country Fried Rock features a deep dive into the journey of Texas-based band Folk Family Revival, from their early days to their latest album, Water Walker.
• Host Sloane Spencer chats with band member Mason Lankford about how their sound has shifted over time. He explains how Water Walker reflects a big step forward in style and creativity.
• Mason shares what went into making the new album, including a lot of experimentation and refining. Many of the songs were tested out live before they were recorded, giving them time to grow naturally.
• That live-first approach helps the band connect more deeply with their audience and shapes the final versions of the songs in meaningful ways.
• The band blends psychedelic rock influences with their folk roots, creating a sound that feels fresh while still grounded in tradition.
• Live shows are a big part of what makes Folk Family Revival unique. Mason talks about how they avoid sticking to rigid setlists, instead aiming for a one-of-a-kind experience at each performance.
• He also reflects on the challenges of playing in places where audiences expect more traditional country music, and how the band stays true to their sound even when it doesn’t fit the mold.
• As they hit the road for their summer tour, the band is inviting fans to experience this new phase in their music firsthand. It's all about growth, experimentation, and creating something real on stage every night.

Links

• Folk Family Revival
• You may also enjoy our conversation with Great Peacock
• After you buy music or see a show, we would love your support with a few dollars in our Tip Jar
• Sloane Spencer now hosts a Gen X sleep podcast, Sleep with Rock...