Songudamunt Contest: Dec 2012

... or as we lovingly call it ...

"The Stumpy"
In honor of multiple month Award Winner
Scott "Stumpy Chicken Arm" Rath


THE ENTRIES (Click title links below to listen)
  • "WHEN YOU SAY NOTHING AT ALL" (Holly Chin)
  • "DAMAGE CONTROL" (Copyright J. Scott Rath Grapes of Rath Music ASCAP) *** WINNER ***
  • "COLD, COLD" (Wayne Humphrey - Copyright © 1982 BigTall Music)
  • "LOST RIVER" (Andrew Z. Shiff Lost River - Copyright © The DeRegulators 1999, 2000. All rights reserved. deGeer Music Publishing, ASCAP) - music link missing
  • "DOWN EVERY STREET" (Scott Hanley - Copyright © 2003 Bullets-BasisPoints Music)
  • "MADNESS" (Johnny Press / Les Brown - Copyright © 1987 Magnificent Bastard Music)
  • "YOUR KIND OF LOVE (YKOL)" (©EricScottBloom/EpiGothic SINGLES/MODARTIST. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.)
  • "WEASEY LIKE A SUNDAY MORNING" (Alan Friedman - Copyright © 2007 Hebro Music)

* Each member can submit one (1) song per month. No more...I suppose you could do less. Not 2 but the number that precedes 2 which is, of course, 1.

* Can be a new work or a vintage work from back in the day.

* Can be an original song or a cover (but voters may lean a bit toward original works unless your version of Mungo Jerry's "In the Summertime" is just a mind blower...).

* The submitter must be either (a) the writer of the song (or co-writer) or (b) performed on the recording and your participation must be noted in your submission.

* If the song is not an instrumental, lyrics must be included in the submission (so the New Yorkers can follow along).




Songudamunt Contest: Nov 2012

... or as we lovingly call it ...

"The Stumpy"
In honor of multiple month Award Winner
Scott "Stumpy Chicken Arm" Rath


THE ENTRIES (Click title links below to listen)



* Each member can submit one (1) song per month. No more...I suppose you could do less. Not 2 but the number that precedes 2 which is, of course, 1.

* Can be a new work or a vintage work from back in the day.

* Can be an original song or a cover (but voters may lean a bit toward original works unless your version of Mungo Jerry's "In the Summertime" is just a mind blower...).

* The submitter must be either (a) the writer of the song (or co-writer) or (b) performed on the recording and your participation must be noted in your submission.

* If the song is not an instrumental, lyrics must be included in the submission (so the New Yorkers can follow along).




Lord Of The Rings


(Front) Bob Allain (bass/vocals)
(Back) Joe Grassey (guitar/vocals), Tom Tincler (drums/vocals), Steve Stern (keyboards).









PF & The Flyers



Paul Franklin ( bass )
Poncho Vidal ( guitars )
Russell Sevigney (drums )
Bob Weigand ( keyboards )
Butch Giachelli ( vocals )

Paul Franklin was born in Fairmon WV moved to Newark Delaware in 1952 and came from a musical family, older brothers played on radio stations , DJing ,Singing and did Gospel music starting in the 1940s

While growing up in the Newark DE area PA, he started playing gutiar at age 12. Played and sang in church at age 13, then in junior high started a band and played in school. His passion grew more in High School and he played at the local Frat parties at the Universey of Delaware in 1961, High School Dances, Fire Fall Rock n Roll Shows

Played in band in the air force, then was in "The Adapters" and got booked in 1967 with them in Newport RI, where he met Richard Carr. Richard was from Philly and in another band until Paul moved to RI in 1968 with Richard Carr and we created The Richard Carr Corp Band. Ricky then got into more with the Booking Agency and left the band in 1970. It was then that PF & The Flyers was born.

Musical influences are Elvis, Ray Charles, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, Ricky Nelson


The Flyers Had a Amazing Group of Musicians through the 70's and 80's
Ron Hammer Ear 70s Drums
John Pearson Drums
John Southard Ear 70s Keys
Joe Scroper Ear 70s Keys
Doug Mohn Ear 70s Guitar
Carol August Ear 70s Vocals
Gary Kirkland late 70s Drums
Bobby Pulsifer 70s Drums
Mike Jansen Drums Late 70s & Early 80s
Michael Llyod 70/80s Keys
Paul Weddle 80s Sax
Keith McGrath 80s Drums
Glenn Evans 70s drums, Vocals
Bruce Gasper 70s keys, Vocals
David Moore 70s drums
Russell Sevigney 70s drums
Jodi Briggs 80s Keys
Andy Celly 80s Keys
Bob Gilpatrick 80s Guitar
Tony Brannon 80s Guitar


Sound/Light Crew
Andy Villegas
Christopher Forte
Tom Bennetti /aka Major Tom



THE ADAPTERS (Predecessor to PF & The Flyers)
By the summer of '64, Paul Franklin had taken Bozo's place on lead guitar. Al was also replaced by John Southard, a trained classical keyboardist and Ed Stirling on lead vocals. With the new line up The Adapters quickly outgrew the weekly block party and in the fall management arranged to rent the new Aetna Fire Hall every Friday night. Around this time Dave Roberts also joined at the rhythm guitar spot, bringing their numbers to six. Their repertoire consisted of the Top 40 hits of the day, which meant they needed to continually learn new material. And as a result they had to emulate multiple styles including healthy doses of British Invasion and Motown.

The Fire Hall Dance was immensely popular and was packed to capacity every week. It was THE place to be in Newark on Friday night and was viewed as a trouble spot by most parents. With an average of 600 in attendance at $1.00 a head the members were bringing home an unheard of $65 a man, after expenses. Local record shark Vince Rago signed them for a record deal with his label, Richie Records, and in 1965 the single "Believe Me"/"Confess", penned by lead singer Ed Stirling, was released. WAMS (Wilmington AM station) was overwhelmed with play requests and the record shot to number 12 on the local Top 40. With a top 20 hit to their credit, doors were opening at larger clubs in NJ and PA and they became regulars at WAMS events.

In spite of these successes, Ed Stirling chose to take his Elvis styles and songwriting skills to another hard working band, The Galaxies. As he was going in, Galaxies' alto saxophonist & vocalist Bill Spots left and joined The Adapters. Another record deal with Montgomery Records provided them with a Number 3 hit "Why"/ "Have Fun This Summer" in 1966. A stunning vocal and Fender Jaguar solo by Franklin highlighted this screaming reverb soaked plea that even reached number 16 in California. In response the band appeared on Philly TV's HyLitt and Jerry Blavat Shows. Booking was signed over to the Jolly Joyce Agency whose far-reaching connections got them on the bill with Mitch Ryder & The Detroit Wheels, Gary Lewis & The Playboys, Freddie & The Dreamers, The Soul Survivors, and more. When the dust finally settled, "Why" had sold 10,000 copies.

The Adapters continued touring the east coast and as far as Chicago until 1968 when Paul & John moved to Rhode Island to form PF & The Flyers, Ron Hammer soon followed. PF carried the flame until the mid nineties. Today Paul is still in Rhode Island; Ron & John returned to Newark. Ed Stirling is still singing locally and guests occasionally on WVUD.






Songudamunt Contest: Oct 2012

... or as we lovingly call it ...

"The Stumpy"
In honor of multiple month Award Winner
Scott "Stumpy Chicken Arm" Rath


THE ENTRIES (Click title links below to listen)



* Each member can submit one (1) song per month. No more...I suppose you could do less. Not 2 but the number that precedes 2 which is, of course, 1.

* Can be a new work or a vintage work from back in the day.

* Can be an original song or a cover (but voters may lean a bit toward original works unless your version of Mungo Jerry's "In the Summertime" is just a mind blower...).

* The submitter must be either (a) the writer of the song (or co-writer) or (b) performed on the recording and your participation must be noted in your submission.

* If the song is not an instrumental, lyrics must be included in the submission (so the New Yorkers can follow along).




Kid Crash





(L ot R) Jun Kikuchi-bass, Kevin Rapillo-drums, John Martinez-vocals, Billy Tsounis-guitar






Songudamunt Contest Sep 2012

... or as we lovingly call it ...

"The Stumpy"
In honor of multiple month Award Winner
Scott "Stumpy Chicken Arm" Rath


THE ENTRIES (Click title links below to listen)



* Each member can submit one (1) song per month. No more...I suppose you could do less. Not 2 but the number that precedes 2 which is, of course, 1.

* Can be a new work or a vintage work from back in the day.

* Can be an original song or a cover (but voters may lean a bit toward original works unless your version of Mungo Jerry's "In the Summertime" is just a mind blower...).

* The submitter must be either (a) the writer of the song (or co-writer) or (b) performed on the recording and your participation must be noted in your submission.

* If the song is not an instrumental, lyrics must be included in the submission (so the New Yorkers can follow along).




CAUTION: Awesome Show Ahead ... FBI / Deep 6


In Extremely Close Proximity to Surf, Sun, Sand, Adult Beverages & Previously Swimming Fried Food ...





On June 23rd ...

Did you CATCH this show
 or 
Did you MISS this show?

EITHER WAY ..

here's another chance ... to see Jimmy, Charlie & Jon.

NEMO Event: "The Bands of Jimmy D'Angelo"

Mark Your Calendars Now !
(Tickets go on sale March 16)




June 23rd, 2012 (7:30 pm)
Worcester, MA.



Special NEMO announcement: Pre-sale of tickets to The Bands of Jimmy D'Angelo concert will be available to NEMO members from March 16 - March 29. NEMO has reserved the first 12 rows of the gorgeous Hanover Theatre for a pre-sale before tickets are released to the public on March 30.

NEMO members have two options: You can select reserved tickets from the theatre's seating chart (no limit) in the first 12 rows, which are VIP seats (best seats in the house) for $25.00 each.

Type in the code "NEMO" when you go to the Hanover Theatre website PRE-SALE link.

Or ... you and a guest can "go free" if you purchase 10 tickets. You will receive 12 tickets in the mail for the price of 10. Get your own group together (friends, co-workers, neighbors, family) and sit together in the best seats in the house. The first 12 rows of The Hanover Theatre are amazing seats!

The "two free ticket" option must be done by SPEAKING to someone in the box office. You can't get the 12 tickets for the price of 10 by using the Hanover Theatre website's ticket link.

NEMO needs your help in either spreading the word (post the concert .jpg on your facebook page), or even better, buying 10 tickets. If you buy 20 tickets .... those of you with lots of friends ... you'll get 4 free tickets. We need to sell 400 tickets just to break even ... so NEMO needs your help !!!

Check out the Hanover Theatre website, click on June 23rd and have the Hanover Theatre REMIND ME. They will send you an email right before the tickets go on sale to NEMO members. Have your friends, co-workers, neighbors and family click on LEARN MORE and they can watch the video and play the audio. Also, have them check out the fabulous slide show of the restoration of this beautiful theatre. Go to the ABOUT US link, then click on RESTORATION and VIEW RESTORATION SLIDE SHOW. Similar to the Boston Opera House, the Hanover Theatre is a Gilded Age treasure. Peter Frampton played there earlier this month.

This is a one time only, iconic event, in a gorgeous venue, for just $25.00. So start putting your group together (just five other couples) and you and a guest can "go free." NEMO needs your help !!!

Check out our first NEMO event at www.thehanovertheatre.org.

NEMO presents The Bands of Jimmy D'Angelo. A night of great music celebrating the remarkable career of one of the coolest cats to ever come out of the New England music scene. See the reunions of some of New England's most storied bands, including:

And if that wasn't enough, check out the Special Guests who will be kicking the night off...this will be a tremendous night of music at an absolutely beautiful venue. Come watch legends:

... perform songs from the Jimmy D songbook.





Please click on any of the icons below and to the left of this post to start getting the word out for this special event.

The Joe Perry Project




1981

Joe Perry (lead guitar/vocals)
Charlie Farren (lead vocals/rhythm guitar)
David Hull (bass)
Ronnie Stewart (drums) 




The Enemy



1983

Charlie Farren (lead vocals/rhythm guitar)
Kenny Kalayjian (guitar)
PJ Curren (keyboards)
David Hull (bass)
Bob Sutton (drums) 


In a 2008 interview recounting his career, Charlie had this to say about the formation of "The Enemy", a band formed after his stint with the "Joe Perry Project" ...

"Dave (Hull) and I started looking for a new lineup and format that would work. Allen Devine came in to play guitar, a great writer and guitarist, and he reminded me of a cross between George Harrison and Jeff Beck. Alan has his own band and still making great, original music — a real artist.

But soon we pulled most of the Balloon guys back because so much was already in place with those relationships: Ken Kalayjian on lead guitar, Dave Hull on bass, Bob Sutton on Drums, and we added Paul Curran on keys. We were instantly very popular regionally, packing clubs around New England, and doing opening slots for larger bands like Aerosmith, The Smithereens, Blue Oyster Cult, Twisted Sister, Joe Cocker, etc. We had a regional radio hit with 'America Rocks.’ The Enemy did a live concert in the street in Worcester that was aired on TV38 and simlucast on WAAF."




Tornado Alley





ORIGINAL Tornado Alley (July of 1980-The Blarney Stone, Worcester MA)

Left to right:
Paul Bonette – drums
Dan Ahenger – guitar and keyboards
Steve LeClaire – sax
Bill Gascoyne – sax
John Freeman – bass

In the fall of 1979, an early version of a band that first called itself “The DB Cooper Band” played sporadically in Worcester Massachusetts as well as the Southbridge/ Brookfields area. DB Cooper, as well as the very 1st version of Tornado Alley played their debut at The Blarney Stone, on Maywood Street in Worcester. The band consisted of John Freeman on bass, Dan Ahenger on guitar, Paul Bonnette on drums, Bill Gascoyne on tenor sax, and a large singer named “Dave” who’s last name escapes me. John Freeman was the driving force behind this band that he had essentially put together. This band eventually changed its name to “Tornado Alley” when they found out there was another DB Cooper band, threatening to sue for use of the name. Bassist John Freeman picked the name Tornado Alley. There had recently been a serious tornado in the Brookfields/Spencer area, and a boy scout had been killed at Treasure Valley camp in Spencer MA. Newscasts of the day kept referring to the area as “Tornado Alley”.

In December of 1979, John Freeman, also the bass player for Worcester’s top country band SOUTHPAW was looking for greener pastures, and ran an ad stating “Wanted: Musicians for R&B based band.” Jazz saxophonist Steve LeClaire answered the ad, and the rest as they say is history. (Bill Gascoyne remembers the formation stemming from Steve and Bill playing together in a jazz/fusion group called "At Odd's End" which practiced in Steve's garage and had approximately one gig.
Freeman liked the idea of adding more horns. The Blues Brothers movie had just become popular, Bruce Springsteen’s music was just hitting the charts, and the sound of “The Big Man” Clarence Clemons was popular. After a few auditions, the line-up of Tornado Alley was formed and consisted of:

John Freeman – bass & vocals
Steve LeClaire – sax
Bill Gascoyne- sax
Paul Bonnette – drums
Dan Anger – guitar/keyboards & vocals

The band rehearsed during the winter of 1980, and made its debut as TORNADO ALLEY at the Blue Plate in Holden MA in the spring of 1980. This band modeled itself after the Blues Brothers, who were popular on the heels of their hit movie and album. The cover repertoire consisted of old blues tunes, shuffles and “soul” music.




Publicity shot (February 1981)

Top left to right:
Ben Gould – trombone
Steve LeClaire – sax
John Freeman – bass

Middle:
Pete Premo – drums
Roger Grover – trumpet

Bottom:
Kathy Kovaks – keyboards
Doug Moore – guitar


In June of 1980, Southpaw had a change of personnel (a violent fistfight amongst the band, onstage at Sir Morgan’s Cove in Worcester that severely bloodied the guitarist and bass player – or the other guys, depending on who’s side you took) and John Freeman was asked to rejoin the band to cover a full summer of already booked dates. Freeman rejoined, but with the condition that he could take along the sax players LeClaire and Gascoyne. Here, these three met newly added guitarist Doug Moore, of Paxton MA, who was replacing guitarist Mark Emerick. 

November of 1980 – Southpaw fight members all kissed and made up, and Freeman, LeClaire and Moore decided that Southpaw’s country swing was not for them, and decided to reform TORNADO ALLEY, based on a “big horn sound”, and capitalizing on the Blues Brothers, as well as Bruce Springsteen who were then popular. Drummer Paul Bonette continued to work as a roadie for Southpaw. Dan Ahenger had departed for a cruise ship gig. Sax player Bill Gascoyne graduated from WPI and moved to California, and bassist John Freeman ran another ad for players. Obtained were:

Roger Grover, Worcester MA – trumpet
Joe Reidy, Worcester MA – trombone
Kathy Kovacs, Auburn MA – keyboards
Peter Premo, Auburn MA – drums

Along with Freeman, LeClaire and Moore, this formation of the band made its debut at Sir Morgan’s Cove, in Worcester MA in February of 1981. This band started to gain a following in the Worcester county area, and began to work regularly. 
In February of 1981, Ben Gould of Northbridge MA replaced Reidy on trombone, who left to pursue a career in real estate and in March of 1981, Mike Mischitelli of Holden MA replaced Kovacs on keyboards. Mischitelli had been an acquaintance of Moore. 

SPRING/SUMMER 1981: The band became a mainstay at the Blue Plate in Holden MA, and the Beef & Bourbon in Rutland MA, as well as Boston West in Barre MA, and Sir Morgan’s Cove in Worcester, MA, and the crowds continued to grow. The band played all covers at this point, mostly Blues Brothers, “blue eyed soul”, and some Springsteen material. However, many were “personalized” into their own Tornado Alley versions.



The lineup from 1982 that most people remember:

Left to right:
Roger Grover – trumpet
Ben Gould – trombone
Steve LeClaire – sax
John Riley – drums
Bruce Reed – bass
Doug Moore – guitar
Mike Mischitelli - keyboards



In August of 1981, bass player John Freeman married and left the band, moving to Florida. Through friendships with Mischitelli, the band met ex- American Standard Band drummer John Riley, just off the road with the Joe Cocker Band. 
Riley replaced Premo on drums. Through an ad, Bruce Reed replaced Freeman on bass, and took over the front man spot. 
This is the version of the band that most fans are familiar with, and really spotlights the high water mark of the band. 

JOHN RILEY – drums
BRUCE REED – bass
MIKE MISCHETTELLI – keyboards
DOUG MOORE – guitar
ROGER GROVER – trumpet
BEN GOULD – trombone
STEVE LECLAIRE – sax

Throughout the fall of 1981, the band used L&L Sound of Worceter MA for production and management. The band recorded a demo of Allan Toussaint’s “Fun Time”, Crow’s “Evil Woman” and Bruce Springsteen’s “Born To Run”, recorded at Larry Boria’s 8 track analog tape “L&L Sound Recording Studio”. “The Alley”, as the band was known in New England circles stayed strong with covers of Springsteen’s tunes, the Blues Brothers, as well as showing Riley’s Joe Cocker influence with many Cocker tunes. They became the quintessential “bar band” and good time partying dance band. 
The band took on management by Don Santora, and booking by Pat George of Campus Services of Spencer MA in the fall of 1981, and began a tour of clubs and colleges from Northern Vermont to Southern Connecticut. Campus Services also later arranged for a sponsorship from Budwieser Beer, providing tour jackets, t-shirts and promotional items, as well as key show dates at colleges. Some key dates of this period include:


October 1981 – Opening for the John Hall Band
November 1981 – Opening for The Joe Cocker Band

December 1981 –
The band breaks downtown club attendance records at J.C.’s, Worcester MA
SPRING of 1982 – the band adds saxophonist Rich Becker of Holden MA and plays with four horns in the section through the summer of 1982.

Summer of 1982 – first band originals penned by guitarist Doug Moore
September 1982 – Becker leaves the band for college

October 1982 – Worcester Magazine Music Poll
2nd place best band – TORNADO ALLEY
Best Guitarist – Doug Moore
2nd best bass player – Bruce Reed
2nd best drummer – John Riley
Best keyboard – Mike Mischitelli
Best horn player – Steve LeClaire
The band also hired Bart McCracken & John Gallagher as full time crew, stage management and lighting.

NEW YEARS EVE 1982 – The band debuts its first all-original set of music at the Beef & Bourbon, Rutland MA
JANUARY 28, 1983 – Band records live album at JC’s, Nightclub, 23 Foster St Worcester MA
FEBRUARY 1983 – the band is desired by all Worcester clubs, and competition sets in. The band is packing houses wherever it plays. John Copolla of JC’s signs the band to a lucrative all exclusive contract that the band only plays JC’s in Worcester. 
MARCH 1983 – The band is on tour with a full schedule including Nantucket Island, Boston MA and Stowe VT.
APRIL 1983 – Band wins Worcester Telegram & Gazette 1st place “Best of Worcester Bands” poll
MAY 5th 1983 – Album “TORNADO ALLEY LIVE” released
MAY 1983 – Outdoor concert with the Joe Perry project & The Stompers
OCTOBER 1983 – Band given a sponsorship with BUDWEISER BEER, which provides opening act status, and large college shows 
OCTOBER 31, 1983 – Tornado Alley with NRBQ at EM Lowe’s theater, Worcester MA
DECEMBER 4th 1983 – Tornado Alley horn section is hired to play with reggae band “Third World” at their 10th anniversary concert at THE CHANNEL in Boston


In April of 1984, keyboard player Mike Mischitelli decided to leave the band to work in his father’s restaurant. “Mitch” is replaced by former Albatross guitarist Jim Perry on keyboards, also doubling on guitar. At the same time, the band decided to replace Doug Moore with former Muddy Waters touring guitarist Mark Easton. The band cited creative differences with Moore over original material as the reason for his departure. 
By May of 1984, Jim Perry moves exclusively onto guitar, replacing Easton, and Eric North, ex Hometown Rockers is added on keyboards. The band continues to play at colleges and clubs throughout New England, opening for Clarence Clemons, NRBQ and others. The band returns to performing mainly cover versions of Soul and R&B standards. 


The raising of the drinking age finally took its toll on nightclubs in late 1984, and the high overhead of maintaining a huge stage show and road crew were cited in newspaper articles of the time as the reason for the final demise of Tornado Alley. The band had been working steadily into its 5th year, but individual players began to look for other options in the waning moments. Strong, original material by the band was elusive and never materialized, and The Alley’s strength remained in its live performances. Those shows became ritualistic “Rock & Soul” parties in the likes of Springsteen, James Brown, Sam Cooke and others, that the fans of Worcester and beyond will fondly remember. Tunes like Sam Cooke’s “Havin’ A Party”, Springsteen’s “Rosalita” and “Born To Run” are amongst the most remembered and requested songs. The last gig as TORNADO ALLEY was played at the old “Leicester Airport” on New Years eve 1985. 


THE LINEUP IN 1985:

Bruce Reed – bass & vocals
Jim Perry – guitar & vocals
John Riley – drums
Eric North – keyboards
Steve LeClaire – sax
Roger Grover – trumpet
Ben Gould – trombone


Zachariah


With a combination of whiskey bravado and twin guitars Zachariah took their place among the New England and Northeast music scene between 1975 and late 1980.

Originally formed in the South Shore by Bob McGrath and David McClean, Zachariah started as a country rock cover band performing Poco, Eagles, Pure Prairie League songs. In 1975, guitarist/pedal steel guitarist  Scott Rath was persuaded to leave Boston University to join their ranks. Scott brought a harder guitar edge (and the necessary steel guitar sound) as well as a number of original songs to the band.

Scott soon persuaded fellow Boston University musical buddy (and Ginger Baker/Keith Moon inspired drummer), Seth Pappas to join Zachariah. Personal changes brought in Eric Austin Wells on vocals and lead guitar, and Tom Kraft on vocals and bass. This ensemble was the one that took Zachariah beyond the small clubs on the South Shore.

Zachariah soon had a set list that included not only originals but an eccentric selection of cover tunes that went from Commander Cody to Steely Dan to Jeff Beck. The South Shore remained the home of Zachariah and they regularly filled every club whenever they played. Although they still performed country rock based material and fit in with the Boston country rock circuit, their sound became harder and more focused on a twin guitar sound such as the Allman Brothers Band and Thin Lizzy (both of whom they frequently covered).

They soon became a popular club, college and concert act playing everywhere from New York City to Presque Isle Maine. They were regulars at a number of clubs such as the Hullaballo in Rensselaer New York, Jonathan Swifts in Cambridge, Mr. C’s in Lowell, and their official home in Nantasket Beach at Uncle Sams and the Bell Buoy in Scituate Harbor.

A co-headlining show at the Paradise with Private Lightning was the first time Don Law had non-signed local bands in the club. Zachariah continued at the Paradise as a headliner and opening act from that point on.

The band soon got a reputation as the guitar band that was called upon to open for national bands of the same genre. A small list of bands they opened for, many of them numerous times, The Outlaws, Molly Hatchet, 38 Special, The Dixie Dregs, Johnny Winter, Pat Travers, Rainbow, Rick Derringer, Rossington Collins, to name a few.

WCOZ brought a 24 track mobile studio to the Bell Buoy and recorded Zachariah and featured them in an hour long broadcast during prime radio hours. They also had a number of originals that were played on both WCOZ and WBCN.

Memorable gigs were played at the Orpheum in Boston opening for their friends Molly Hatchet and the Outlaws and at the Palace theatre in Albany New York also with the Outlaws. (and then there was the Hells Angels Troy Division pig roast, but that is best not spoken of).

After the usual management problems Seth Pappas left to move to Nashville and the band disbanded.

SCOTT RATH

Scott Rath continued playing around New England with assorted bands and a trio format. During this time he continued to open for national acts such as Steve Marriot, The Outlaws (still) Johnny and Edgar Winter, and even the Ramones.

Scott moved to LA in 1984 after deciding he had gone as far as he could in the Boston scene and soon found himself an in demand pedal steel player, playing every honky tonk in Southern California, as well as in a number of rock bands.From these gigs he was able to procure stints with Warren Zevon and, later, Ginger Baker.

With a core band of Ginger Baker, Tim Bogart and Scott, he was able to play with many of the musicians he had been inspired by, including both Hendrix drummers Mitch Mitchell and Buddy Miles. Also, Yes drummer Alan White and original Steppenwolf guitarist Michael Monarch and many more.

In 1991, he moved to Nashville in 1991 to work on the other side of the music industry at Warner Reprise Records (and raise his two daughters. During this period he received accolades for his songwriting including a Dove award (the Christian Grammy’s) in 1997 for composing the Christian Country Song of the year. But his live playing was put aside.

Postscript

Scott is currently playing in another guitar oriented band with old friend, well known southern rocker Donnie Winters, and has come full circle.

Seth Pappas has been the main drummer for the James Montgomery Band for the past 7 or 8 years. Seth and Scott remain the best of friends and have gotten together a number of times in Boston to record with David Hull and to play live as a trio.

Eric Wells continues to play locally in Boston.

Tom Kraft is a full time musician in the Orlando area.

Of course this bio was written by Scott, so there is more about him, as should be the case.

Stewart Little

1976



Members

Mark Crosby – Guitar (SG and Orange Amps)
Bill Vanolinda – Guitar (SG and Orange Amps)
Brian Cunis – Drums (Concussionist)
Gary Angove – Bass (He of the twin SVT's)
Steve Russo – Lead Vocals (last incarnation) (formally with the Boom Boom Band post Willie Loco)


Road Crew

Frank Sullivan – Sound (first)
Bob Demoss – Sound (second)
Joe Armatruda – Lights (first)
Lou Travaglini – Lights (second)
Scott Wilkinson – Stage

Home Base – Holliston, MA (bandhouse of ill repute)

Band was started with former members of The Sound Rebellion and played the New England area for around 3 years.

Calamity Jane

Members

Mark Crosby – Guitar
Brian Cunis – Drums
Neil Martin – Guitar
Fred Jaques – Bass
Ellen – Vocals


Road Crew

Lou Travaglini – Lights
Scott Wilkinson – Stage
Craig Mannion – Sound and Manager

This was the final incarnation of Calamity, previously featured three female vocalists. Toured the Northeast including upstate NY.


Sacrifice



L-R Louie Santoro, Steve Neitz, Rick Fava, Danny & Tom Kelly, Mike Capobianco









F Sharp




Dean Lopes, Steve Bigelow & Joe Caron

Axminster



1985
L to R: Mike Lamm - drums, Benny Fiorentino - lead guitar, Steve Sera - lead vocals / guitar, Danny Callan - bass,
Mike Mosca -guitar

Formed in the winter of 1983, Axminster’s original line-up included vocalist/guitarist Steve Sera, drummer Mike Lamm, bassist Jeff Callan and guitarist Mike Mosca. The band had a WBCN # 1 regional hit with the song Teenage Livin’ and played the WBCN rumble in 1984.

Following up with a 45 rpm and another WBCN #1 song titled Rock n’ Roll Infection, the band added lead guitarist Benny Fiorentino. Bassist Danny Callan took over for brother Jeff in 1985.

Axminster played the Boston club circuit as a headliner as well as opening for bands like Metallica, Alvin Lee, Twisted Sister, Molly Hatchet, Foghat, Extreme and Lita Ford. The band filmed two videos that aired on V-66 but called it quits in the summer of 1986 after showcasing for several major record companies.

In 2003, Axminster, using the name Kick the Dog, recorded and released an 8-song CD titled Territory. Songs off the CD got some airplay and both regional and international magazines and web-sites raved about the “new” band.

In 2009 Axminster, released the CD titled About Face with all new original material. The band still plays shows occasionally and is still making music.



Audio





CREW Member: Bob Demoss

Started learning drums and a little guitar when I was about 11 years old. Had my 1st band in the early 60's called 'The Trolls" from Ashland. Guitarist and I would switch and I played guitar on 'For Your Love' by the 'Yardbirds'. Later moved to Natick and met Louie Santoro.

Decided to quit drums (shin splints) and took my first roadie/lightman gig with "Sacrifice", where I also played congas on Santana covers.

It's after high school where the story begins, starring Louie Santoro, seemingly guiding me, at nearly every turn ... as I worked with:

Sledge-Hamma - Lights/Sound
Stewart Little - Sound
Pretty Poison -  Stage roadie/Sound.

At this point a friend wanted me to design a club PA and became Dark Star Sound. I worked with a few bands-Ice, Griffin and Justice as well as battle of bands at the Back Room. Then I got married and there went my musical involvement, for a while. Had to make some money to pay the old bills that had accumulated. Worked at KiddeFenwal in Ashland for 20 years and retired due to numerous shoulder injuries (Damn Ramunos B3 & B.Howe's Ampeg!)

Got together with R. Ramuno and worked sound for band he was in but found, after their 1st gig, that my shoulders couldn't take it. I had been seeking old band tapes and started polishing them. I still keep my hand in that part but retired from the roadie work. Too bad, as I invested around $10K in a new mixing board, mics.stands, EQ, other toys and a Bose stereo L2 phase 2 with 8 bass bottoms. Makes a nice home stereo system .

I had been exposed to many styles of music.Country from living in Tenn., Big Band from Abbott & Costello  movies and classical from school. Hate rap and most operas and don't really care for current bubble gum music. Rock & Roll is the best.

... Nuf Sed ...

CREW Member: Steve Signor




1977 - 1980 Kashmir Lights/Spot/equipment truck (Big Blue) driver
1981 - 1986 Real world computer operator/programmer
1986 - A few Blotto gigs
1986 - EZO string tech (bass and guitar)
1987 - Foghat T-Shirts
1988 - Great White bass tech
1988 - Winger guitar tech (Reb Beach)
1989 - Outlaws string tech (guitars/guitars/guitars/guitars/guitars/bass)

CREW Member: Joe Astrella (1953-1993)

Joe on a rainy afternoon after setting up guitar world on tour with Tina Turner and scowling at the chord he plays in his headphones.

In the early 1970's, Joe Astrella played guitar with his childhood friends in an early incarnation of the band from Shrewsbury, Mass called Dark Horse but he said he felt uncomfortable on stage and became their lighting and sound technician instead. After a couple years of club gigs and school dances he was asked to run lights for the band FATE and soon realized it was not only fun but he could actually make a living as a roadie. Joe was extremely organized and this made him one of the best techs in the area. In the late 70's he did a tour with Willie 'Loco' Alexander and the Boom Boom Band who were backing up Elvis Costello on several dates and was hired at Polico Lighting in Warwick RI who was providing production equipment for the J. Geils Band and Boston. Boston was headlining an arena tour with Sammy Hagar as the opening act and Joe went out as a lighting tech for Polico.

Tom Scholz appreciated Joe's technical ability and knowledge of guitars enough to ask him to test out a new product he had created called the Rockman. He also had him build his foot pedal boards for touring and do some woodworking at his home recording studio.

Back from the road, Joe learned from his old friends David Heglmeier and Brian Sklarz who had worked with him for FATE that a new band, The Cars, were about to break and needed a guitar tech. Joe was perfect for the job and toured with them throughout the 80's. When not on tour with The Cars he worked at their studio on Newbury Street in Boston called Synchro Sound. In the mid 80's, after 5 tours with The Cars, they were not touring as much and even though Joe remained employed by The Cars Limited, he began touring with Tina Turner as the guitar tech. Tina's resurgence had her doing long, massive world tours that lasted as much as a year and a half. He had built his own customized guitar-workstation and multi-guitar stands as road cases for touring. He also designed and patented a guitar fork-hanger that mounts into a road case. With his knack for building things he decided to open a woodworking shop in Worcester Mass. so he could build his own projects and take on commercial work when he wasn’t on the road. He also did short stints as guitar tech for shows with Dan Fogelberg, Hall & Oates and Stevie Wonder.

Joe was on his 7th world tour with Tina Turner in 1993 when he fell ill and succumbed to an aggressive cancer a few months later. He was an inspiration to many people for his ability to design and build what he imagined and in the way he would strive for perfection. He developed methods to accomplish tasks that would amaze people when he described exactly why he did things in a logical, form-follows-function kind of way. It always made sense.

Today, Joe’s son Alex has taken guitar lessons from Joe D'Angelo and Joe Astrella Jr. is playing drums in his own band.

The big old tour bus rolls on!