Top 10 String Cheese Incident Songs

Photo: Mr.schultz, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Our list of the Top 10 String Cheese Incident Songs introduces a band whose eclectic music blends progressive bluegrass, psychedelia, country, and rock elements. Active since 1993, the group initially performed at private events and ski resorts before founding their independent label, SCI Fidelity. Under this label, they released their eagerly anticipated debut album, Born on the Wrong Planet, which showcased a mix of original compositions and covers, all characterized by a melodic approach. Their follow-up album, self-titled and recorded live at Colorado’s Fox Theatre, soon followed.

By the time they considered their third album, Round the Wheel, the band had achieved musical and lyrical sophistication, marked by increasing popularity and enhanced live performances, particularly through their collaboration with Peak Experience Productions. The String Cheese Incident has firmly established itself as a distinguished force in the bluegrass genre with a discography that includes ten studio albums and three live series. The current lineup features Michael Kang on mandolin and violin, Michael Travis on drums, Keith Moseley on bass, Kyle Hollingsworth on piano, Bill Nershi on guitar, and Jason Hann on auxiliary percussion. Here, we present our Top 10 String Cheese Incident songs, selected from their extensive studio and live recordings.

# 10 – Can’t Wait Another Day

Leading our list of the top 10 String Cheese Incident songs is the touching song “Can’t Wait Another Day,” featured on the band’s 2014 album, A Song in My Head. Although the entire band contributed to the song’s development, its original composition is credited to keyboardist Kyle Hollingsworth. Inspired by the overwhelming joy he experienced upon the birth of his daughter, Isabel, “Can’t Wait Another Day” reflects Hollingsworth’s profound emotions during this life-changing event. The song starts with a compelling bass line from Hollingsworth, around which the band collaboratively shaped the rest of the track. Not only did “Can’t Wait Another Day” showcase the band’s enduring talent, but it also rekindled their spark, reminding fans of their lasting relevance in the music scene.

# 9 – 45th of November

The intriguing track “45th of November” by The String Cheese Incident might prompt you to ponder the unexpected nature of life and time. This thought-provoking song invites listeners to engage their imaginations and contemplate a date that doesn’t exist, serving as a metaphor for the unpredictable and unknown nature of the future. Crafted by Kyle Hollingsworth, the song’s lyrics challenge us to accept the uncertainty of what lies ahead. Remarkably, Hollingsworth’s original lyrics remained untouched by the other band members, preserving the song’s unique perspective and message.

# 8 – Johnny Cash

“Johnny Cash,” a standout track from their 1997 album Born on the Wrong Planet, earns a well-deserved spot on our Top 10 String Cheese Incident Songs list. This unique composition offers a playful nod to classic Johnny Cash themes, incorporating references to trains and his iconic song “Ring of Fire.” The String Cheese Incident’s innovative approach to the song’s rhythm showcases the band’s instrumental virtuoso skills, making it a must-listen for both fans of the band and the legendary Man in Black.

# 7 – Restless Wind

“Restless Wind,” a track from the 1998 album ‘Round the Wheel, showcases the songwriting prowess of Bill Nershi. This song highlights the band’s instrumental talent, enriched by the contributions of guest artists Paul McCandless on tenor and soprano saxophone, and Tony Furtado on banjo. Their involvement adds depth and texture to the band’s sound. “Restless Wind” has become a favorite among fans, particularly for its vibrant live performances, underscoring The String Cheese Incident’s ability to bring their music to life on stage.

# 6 – Sirens

“Sirens” is a standout track from The String Cheese Incident’s 2003 album, Untying the Not, and has become one of the band’s most celebrated songs. The song poses a poignant question about personal satisfaction with one’s life and whether that contentment would remain if one’s time were to come to an end. “Sirens” serves as a powerful reminder of life’s impermanence, urging listeners not to take anything for granted. It encourages expressing love openly and ensuring that we leave no task unfinished or word unsaid, reinforcing the importance of living fully and meaningfully.

# 5 – Black and White

The ballad “Black and White,” from The String Cheese Incident’s 2001 album Outside Inside, acts as a compelling call to awareness. The song suggests that despite the abundance of information available to us, there is still much we do not know. It emphasizes the importance of leaning on each other’s strengths and capabilities to transcend our perceived limitations and see beyond the superficial. “Black and White” reminds us that the world is not merely binary; it is filled with a spectrum of colors and possibilities, urging us to explore and embrace the diversity and depth of life around us.

# 4 – Jellyfish

Although “Jellyfish” is the final track on The String Cheese Incident’s album Born on the Wrong Planet, it stands out as one of the band’s most iconic songs. The instrumental arrangement of “Jellyfish” is particularly energizing, showcasing a masterful fusion of the diverse instruments the band plays. This track is the ideal backdrop for a spirited jam session, especially on those nights when you’re unwinding with a drink, yet mindful of the next day’s responsibilities. In such moments, “Jellyfish” resonates on a whole new level, perfectly capturing the essence of living in the moment while facing the inevitable return to routine.

# 3 – Sometimes a River

Securing the third spot in our top 10 The String Cheese Incident songs list is “Sometimes a River,” from the band’s album One Step Closer. This evocative track tells the story of a man who finds himself reminiscing about a past love. Despite his attempts to move on, he occasionally finds his thoughts drifting back to her. The distance that now separates them makes reconnecting an impossibility, leaving him with nothing but memories. These memories, both sweet and painful, are all that remain, haunting him as time progresses. “Sometimes a River” beautifully captures the bittersweet nature of love lost and the indelible marks it leaves on the heart.

# 2 – Lost

Featured on the band’s 2001 album Outside Inside, “Lost” is a composition by the band’s keyboardist, Kyle Hollingsworth. The song exudes a New Orleans funk vibe, drawing inspiration from Little Feat’s “Skin It Back” for its infectious groove. “Lost” delves into the experiences of individuals who pour their efforts into achieving their ambitions, only to discover a lingering sense of emptiness. This theme might resonate particularly with those who dedicate themselves tirelessly to their work, making “Lost” a poignant anthem for workaholics seeking fulfillment beyond their professional achievements.

# 1 – Texas

“Texas” stands out as a definitive track on Born on the Wrong Planet, arguably making it The String Cheese Incident’s most celebrated album and song. The track recounts a rather adventurous tale of the band members traveling through Texas in an RV, with mushrooms stored in the cabinet. Their journey takes an unexpected turn when they accidentally crash into a liquor store. The situation escalates when the police arrive and search the RV, discovering the mushrooms. Unfamiliar with what they’ve found, the officers issue the band a minor ticket, allowing them to continue on their way. This song encapsulates a unique blend of humor, adventure, and the spirit of freedom, characteristics that have endeared The String Cheese Incident to their fans.