Stripmall Ballads

Bio

Outsider folk music

Phillips Saylor Wisor has been a veteran presence in the underground North American folk scene for 20 years.

Winner of 2021 Wammie Award for Best Folk Album Distant

His music is identifiable by the mountain banjo and his unique guitar style that combines Piedmont Blues, Bluegrass and Psychedelic Country influences.

The folk songs of Stripmall Ballads expose all the pretty things to be found in things that ain’t so pretty. There is profundity in the ordinary and redemptive qualities hidden in our darker moments.

A captivating performer and a boot stomp-inducing banjo player, Phillips was a founding member of the old time group, the Shiftless Rounders and was the touring banjo/guitarist for IBMA-winning bluegrass band, King Wilkie.

“Vivid imagery and creative songwriting. It’s 21st century Dustbowl Americana - a modern sound with hints of the greats.” Folk and Tumble (Ireland)