The .357 String Band, often revered as torchbearers of the Americana and bluegrass punk scene, infuses its music with a gritty, high-octane blend of traditional and insurgent tunes. Founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in the early 2000s, this four-piece act quickly gained notoriety for their breakneck speeds and raucous live shows, endearing them to both punk rockers and bluegrass aficionados alike. Comprised of Rick Ness on upright bass, Derek Dunn on guitar, Joe Huber on banjo, and Billy Cook on mandolin, the band is known for its instrumental prowess and the raw, unfiltered emotion it brings to its performances.

The .357 String Band's discography, while not extensive, has made a significant impact within their genre. Their final full-length album, "Lightning from the North," released in 2010, continued to showcase their high-energy blend of bluegrass and roots music with a rebellious edge. Earlier works like "Fire & Hail" (2008) solidified their reputation as a force majeure in the underground music community, brimming with authenticity and lyrical narratives that speak to the heart of American life. While the band disbanded in 2011, their rambunctious spirit lives on through their recordings, and "Ghost Town," their 2006 debut album, remains a testament to the fierce originality and defiant sound of The .357 String Band that garnered them a passionate and enduring fanbase.