Combining an organic, rootsy flavor with a minimalist, punk-informed edge, the Vulgar Boatmen's sound suggests R.E.M. covering the Velvet Underground. The band formed in the early '80s at the University of Florida, and the early lineup included future Silos leader Walter Salas-Humara, but by the time they recorded their first album, 1989's YOU AND YOUR SISTER, the group revolved around singer/songwriters Dale Lawrence (formerly of pioneering punk band the Gizmos) and Robert Ray. They released their third and last album in 1995, but purportedly remained active on a local level for many years after.