Hi there local friends, we meet again. Now that we are getting somewhat deep into 2015, there has been so much on my calendar that I want to attend and witness! First off, let’s take a second to acknowledge everything cool that has been happening as of late, like Toothgrinder being on tour with nationally signed acts, Common Wealth opening up for Drowning Pool at Starland Ballroom, and my friends Those Mockingbirds winning eight weeks of consecutive airplay on 95.9 The Rat! Those are just a few of the standout accomplishments that I wanted to bring into the light this week, as nothing is stopping the bands from this lovely state I call home, New Jersey. Congratulations to all of the bands in this area for chasing their dreams and never giving up!
Now, I want to put another talent in the limelight this week that has really caught my attention. I had seen their name buzzing around social media for a little while, and then they premiered a new song, which really put me over the edge. This act goes by the name of The Gray Company. If you have already heard of them, great, continue on the journey with me. For the others that don’t know them yet, hopefully this column will steer you in the right direction.
The Gray Company hails from Union, New Jersey, and is a talent in their own league. The band is made up of members comprised of Zebeeb Awalom (vocals, guitar), Jason Fandino (guitar), Josh Howard (drums), and Adrian Kabigting (bass). They released their new EP on Feb. 20 at an awesome release show at 10th Street Live in Kenilworth, New Jersey, with one of my favorite local bands, Owel. Their track “This Old House” had my ears in a frenzy from the second I heard the first note. I am not sure what it is about them that has me so hooked; it could be their harmonies, vocal range, or unique sounding style, or the fact that their talent really shines through their tracks. It’s soothing, almost a track you want to put on while lying in a hammock in your backyard with a Corona Light in hand. However, don’t get it twisted, for this band can rock hard.
Island Fortress, Island Home is the title of their new EP, and it’s compressed with some really awesome songs that you need to check out. Their originality seeps through on every note, putting them in their own league. If you are looking for something unique and fresh to add to your library, this is the band for you.
If you head on over to their website, you can check out their promo video. Not only will their talent win you over, but it’s their style and flare that is so damn catchy as well. This can be found at thegraycompany.com. The song on the video is called “Object Permanence,” and it will leave you feeling smooth as butter, I can promise you that. They ooze an aura that just doesn’t exist anymore; almost like they come from another time period or generation, in the best way possible. It’s natural, raw talent, without any frills. Nowadays, and this isn’t a dig, the musical world we live in has very low odds of actually creating something unique. However, this band proves that theory wrong. They seem so happy with the style of music they have chosen to play, and they do it well. They almost create their own style with other existing genres and put their own spin on it.
You can learn more about The Gray Company and check out their new EP over on their Facebook page at facebook.com/TheGrayCompany. Over there you can also find video, exclusive content, and show postings. There isn’t one band thing I can say about this band, and you will have to see for yourself just how cool they are. Show them some love, and leave them a message letting them know you want them to play in your town! They are very interactive with their fans and have an ever-growing fanbase, so be sure to hop on the bandwagon!
I will be back next week with another band of your liking. In the meantime, keep on sending in your new music for me to check out, for I want to put you in the spotlight!
