Tired of the sounds of contemporary mainstream music, and fed up with the poor way he was showcasing his voice in the punk/art-rock projects he had sung in during college, in 1998 Robert Rial decided to become more acoustic and delve into archaic forms of music, and specifically seldom used vocal styles. An avid 78 speed record collector and old time music enthusiast, Robert began to emulate the styles of music he loved most. Country Blues/country swing, vaudeville, tin pan alley, folk, jazz, and mountain music pervaded his songwriting style. The result was his foundation for Bakelite 78. Robert met Jason Grey at O.U. in Athens in 1995, and has collaborated musically with Grey numerous times through the years. Jason is accordionist, percussionist, and plays 'miscellany', and he has devised a unique and rather ingenious drum 'kit'. In 2003, Robert met Gregg Coffey, an amazing local artist/musician, who introduced Robert to Bob Kessler, clarinet/harmonica rocker, radio personality, and photographer. Kessler also plays occasional washboard when Jason Grey is playing accordion or slide instead. A year or so later, our trio met "Dick" Unetich at one of our shows and he joined us with trumpet and six-string shortly thereafter. Dick is also capable of filling in on washboard. Finally. In December 2004, the truly amazing Ariel Bolles joined us on upright bass, harmony vocals and trombone. A versatile 'skiffle' combo creating new blues, jazz and country classics, and paying homage to our amazing American musical heritage, Bakelite 78 has come to let you all know that happy days are here again.