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| membership |
| joined: 09/03/08 10:44:35 |
| members |
| Art Perry, Nancy Perry, Kevin Joella, Eddie Albrecht, Louis Vasile |
| biography |
"The idea behind a rock band's name is to provide a hook. More often than not, however, the odder the name, the less they have to offer. Such are the times. Good music is essential to any serious music lover, and one band that provides this in abundance is most appropriately named, The Essentials.
Lead singer and songwriter Art Perry has assembled an extremely talented unit that is clearly in tune with the vital concept that the music is first and foremost. The Essentials' sound combines a blend of '60 influence with a unique personal style and Perry's expressive lyrics and singing make it that much more effective. Joining him in this impressive lineup are Nancy Gibson on vocals, Kevin Joella on lead guitar, Ed Albrecht on percussion, and Louie Vasile on bass. This band's talent is not to be ignored. There is no weak link.
The Essentials current CD, The Marshmallow Theory, is a solid collection of quality Rock and Roll (Not "Rock." "Rock and Roll." There's a difference). It's not loud noise, it's music. The Essentials pay strict attention to the guitar and devote the full respect it deserves as the versatile musical instrument that it is. Each song has it's own sound. The band's arrangements are easy to groove to and aren't complicated. The musicianship is tight and nobody is trying to impress you with anything other than the music itself, which is a refreshing change from the usual.
The Essentials cover a lot of ground on this album. "She Never Talks to Him," "Cigarettes and Lies," "It Is Time," "Mutual Insanity," and "Convoluted Minds," provide an excellent example of the band's creative ability. "Never Too Late" is a funny rap piece (Yes, I said rap - but not THAT kind of rap). "Bells of Freedom" requires particular attention, not just for the remarkable lead solo by Kevin Joella, but the heartfelt lyrics sung by Ms. Gibson, inspired by the loss of her brother in Vietnam. "Can I Be Your Hero" is a beautiful ballad that shows The Essentials' mellower side. And then they kick it into hyperdrive with "A Secret Thing Called Love" that brings you right out of your seat.
Speaking of which, on stage is where The Essentials really shine. They are potent, passionate and project the fun they have right to the audience. There are studio bands and there are live bands. The Essentials are both. They virtually recreate their studio sound and increase their energy level in concert, a very rare ability that even the biggest acts in music fail to do. An important fringe benefit is that it prevents any confusion or even disappointment that could arise when somebody who's seen the band live goes out and buys the CD only to hear a very different sounding band. Or vice versa. It's one of The Essentials' many strengths.
The typical selling points of a band are not nearly enough when discussing The Essentials. This band is heads, shoulders and guitar straps above the others in their class. You'll know right away when you hear their CDs, see them live, or (preferably) both. This is not just another local middle-aged rock band trying to recapture a fading dream. These are talented people who are in it for the music and it shows across the board.
" |
| location |
AMERICA NORTH: USA: New Jersey (NJ)
artists located in AMERICA NORTH: USA: New Jersey (NJ)
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| artist genre |
Rock & Roll
artists that sound like "Rock & Roll"
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| artist influences |
| Beatles, Stones, British Invasion, R.E.M., Neil Young, Bowie |
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