Based out of Fort Worth, Texas, The Phantom Sensation (TPS) gives a new name to Folk-Punk music; "Blackgrass." This unique genre is a blend between Twangy Folk and Punk/Rock music, often switching gears between traditional sounds and a more gritty feel. Their Southern Gothic narrative tells a dynamic story through a range of emotions and unique settings. Like the soundtrack to a B Horror Movie, TPS embraces "Campy" or "Cheesy" elements, but also thickens the plot by diving into the mindset of a strength in the song, "Sink or Swim". They also get socio-political in the song "Another Body for the Fire," that criticizes the witch-hunt mentality of modern day politics that should have stayed in Salem Village circa 1693.
Out on the road, TPS voiced their story with the release of three songs. These songs illustrate a concept properly titled "The Road Trilogy." The first song, "Better Times," gives us hopelessness and abandonment. "Road to Nowhere" depicts the coming of age in suburbia, and "Dead Weight" tells us that letting go can also set us free. Although TPS is characterized by a traditional grit, their music shines a light in the darkness of life's uncertainties by trading out cynicism for a deeper understanding of the world.

With a new line up and new material, TPS is back in action. Leading on vocals, Brandon and Jessica Burnett create a seamless harmony that now characterizes their sound. Brandon "Broke String" earned his nickname on guitar, after years of breaking strings and writing music, a testament to his passion. On banjo, harmonica, and tambourine, Jessica Marie is perhaps the most versatile musician in the group. Zachary "Danger" Zanetich, bassist and backup vocalist, is the charismatic backbone of TPS. On the drum kit, Aaron "Papa Bear" Burke draws much inspiration from his years playing metal music, adding a powerful twist to the already unique sound TPS has to offer. Caleb Dixon, the most recent addition to TPS, gives depth to their music with layers of both subtle and abrasive lead guitar licks.

TPS began 2016 with their periodic Newsletter, the "Blackgrass Express." For "Fantoms," the Newsletter is a way to stay informed. It keeps anticipation building for their next full length album appropriately titled, "The Blackgrass Express." Set in the American South, this concept album takes place in an unknown future. Originally imagined as a stage play, the album is condensed into ten songs that follow unsuspecting passengers imprisoned upon a ghost train. With each song, we learn more of these passengers, all victimized by their own vengeful spirits. This Southern Gothic, Blackgrass Epic is due for release in the Summer of 2016. All aboard THE BLACKGRASS EXPRESS!