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 studio 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 recorded their next studio 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 and jam-band world with a discography that includes eight studio albums and a vast archive of live releases, including the long-running On The Road/LiveCheese series. The current lineup features Michael Kang on mandolin, violin, and guitar; Michael Travis on drums and percussion; Keith Moseley on bass; Kyle Hollingsworth on keyboards; Bill Nershi on guitar; and Jason Hann on 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, Song in My Head. Although the entire band contributed to the song’s development, keyboardist Kyle Hollingsworth is credited with the original composition. Inspired by the overwhelming joy and anticipation he experienced while awaiting the birth of his daughter Isabel, “Can’t Wait Another Day” reflects Hollingsworth’s profound emotions during this life-changing event. The song opens with a compelling bass line, around which the band built the rest of the track. “Can’t Wait Another Day” not only showcases the band’s enduring talent, but also rekindles 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 use their imagination and contemplate a date that doesn’t exist, serving as a metaphor for the unpredictable, unknown nature of the future. Kyle Hollingsworth wrote the music, and Robert Hunter wrote the lyrics, which give the track its unique perspective and message.

#8 – Johnny Cash

“Johnny Cash,” a standout track from their debut 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 virtuosity, making it a must-listen for fans of both 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. The album is 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 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 band’s diverse instruments. 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 2005 album One Step Closer. This evocative track tells the story of a man 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, with a groove reminiscent of Little Feat’s “Skin It Back.” “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 road-trip tale involving an RV, mushrooms stored in the cabinet, and an unexpected stop at 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 a minor ticket, allowing the travelers 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.