I'm not sure what the meaning of life is, but I know it has something to do with the Ray Mason Band.

The group, fronted by Ray and his road-worn Silvertone electric guitar, has been tirelessly touring and shaking awake jaded audiences since 1982. I've seen it happen! There's something about Ray's quirky yet catchy way with a verse and chorus, the raw yet lush pop sound of the band, the honest rock-and-roll energy the guys throw at their instruments – crowds form, people dance, fans are born, word gets around.

There are thirteen examples of that inspiring sound and timeless songcraft on the Ray Mason Band's fourth full-length CD, "Castanets." Whether the boys are ripping through a rocker like "You'll Never Catch Me Out of Her Mind," kicking up some countryish vibes on a song like "Sometimes in Love," or majestically unveiling an Almighty Riff on such tracks as "Hosts for the Road" and "Mailbox Blue," the unique chemistry of the band shines through.

And Ray leads the way. It makes sense that he'd write a song called "Pop Dreams," since he hasn't forgotten the simple but unmatchable ecstasy of spending the afternoon hanging out listening to 45s, letting the perfect three-minute bursts of music energize and revitalize. Like a vinyl-powered fountain of youth. The Ray Mason Band's songs have that same spark.

Ray's like a teenager with thirty-plus years of rock-and-roll experience. He plays hundreds of shows each year -- as he has for decades now – but you'll never see him go through the motions. It's no wonder: thanks to all his songs' lyrical hooks and catchy melodies, he's constantly being recharged by the music. Put on "Castanets" and let it do the same for you.

Ken Maiuri 3/99

On this album Ray’s band consists of Stephen Desaulniers (ex-Scud Mt. Boy) on bass & backing vocals, Frank Marsh on drums & backing vocals, and Tom Shea (another ex-Scud Mt. Boy) on second guitar and backing vocals, with Jim Weeks playing keys, and of course it wouldn’t be the Ray Mason band without Ray.

Discography of Ray Mason:

1999 Ray Mason Band, "Castanets," Wormco

1998 Ray Mason Band, "Old Souls Day," Wormco

1997 Lonesome Brothers, "Lonesome Brothers," Tar Hut (Ray is one of two songwriters for the band)

1996 Ray Mason Band, "Missyouville," Chunk Records

1995 Ray Mason Band, "Between Blue and Okay," Ocean Music

Tar Hut Records a tribute to Ray titled "It's Heartbreak that Sells," featuring acts such as Cheri Knight, Ass Pony’s, Claudia Malibu, Ware River Club, Eric Ambel, Charlie Chesterman, and 12 more.