The Nick Strange Band - Beauty and Bombast (2013)

This recording is homage to the elegant and organic form known as the Power Trio.

The songs were spontaneously recorded upon the cancellation of a live performance in the spring of 2011. With John Churchville and John Sperendi on drums and bass, we came to the studio and recorded tracks 1, 3, 6, 11, and 13 over two nights that had been set aside for a rehearsal and the afore mentioned gig. They learned the songs on the spot and what you hear is the results. With the exception of a few edits, the addition of back ground vocals and the re-singing of track 11, this is a live in the studio recording.

In the following week we added three more recording sessions. We recorded tracks 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 12. On these sessions it was Dave Wak on drums and Sam Monroe on bass. It was the same learn it as we go, live in the studio process. I am grateful for the artistry and can do spirit of these four gentleman musicians, not only for these recordings but for the many live performances we’ve done over the recent years. Thanks Dave, Sam, John C, and John S.

About the Old Ludwig Drum kit (like Ringo and Mitch Mitchell used to play):

It belonged to my old friend Stan’s uncle and he brought to my practice space years ago: much jamming and practicing ensued. Over the years many friends have sat at this kit, I will try to list them in a vague chronology: Stan Filkins, James Cohglan, Columbus James, Robert Carbeck, Kelly Augustine, Don Prior, Mark Sutton, Jim Latini, Andrew Scheiber, Dave Wak, John Churchville, and couple of folks who my memory has unfortunately betrayed. Thanks to all of them for the good times and now the Old Ludwig has made it onto this recording. For my money it sounds great, and as fresh as the morning sun.

“Sing on Brother, play on Drummer.” Jimi Hendrix, the last line from “If Six was Nine”.