As I sit here today getting ready to indulge in some musical content, I am reflecting on all of the amazing acts I have already seen this summer, and it’s not even half over. Can’t the weather stay like this always? Hey, a girl can dream, but you can’t take her out of Jersey. Whether it’s outdoor concerts, indoor shows, festivals, or whatever you have, there is always something to do around here that involves music and the arts.
On that, getting back to business, I recently discovered a band that I am totally into. They are different from what I usually feature in this column, and that’s the most exciting part. They actually had been in contact with The Aquarian by sending in their music, and it caught my attention (take notes, people). They reside in Astoria, New York, which is usually a little further than I travel to see some shows, but I may have to make an exception to that rule for them. They go by the name of TarantinosNYC. I think we all can put a definition on the band name, but one day I will sit down with them and we will get the full scoop. In the meantime, let’s get to know their sound and style, shall we? I don’t know about you, but I am ready.
TarantinosNYC started as a band back in the stone ages of July 2005. They have a blended sound of “surf, soul, spy, and spaghetti western.” They may have made up that genre combination, but you have to admit, it’s intriguing as all hell. Members include Paulie Tarantino, Tricia Tarantino, Joey Tarantino, and Brian Tarantino. Oh yeah, IT’S ALL IN THE FAMILY! You have to love that.
The first track I took a listen to that got my blood flowing was “Spanish Steps.” I forgot to mention, all of the jams are instrumental. If that’s your thing, you will thoroughly enjoy this. It really showcases just how talented they are as musicians. This song makes me want to sit on the beach in California with a beer in my hand and the sun setting behind me. Come on, if that doesn’t get you excited, I don’t know what will! Another groovy tune is called “Lo Chiamavano King.” Although the title may be hard to pronounce, it’s extremely easy to dance to.
Upon reading the description of their band, they hit the name right on the head with this one. They stated, “We specialize in the great crossfade between instrumental ’60s-’70s surf and soul that makes ’90s gangsters somehow more hip.” This may be the truest statement ever spoken. After all, if you’re into this genre, you know that during the early years of rock music, many surf bands provided soundtracks to people’s imaginary perception of what California life was like. I could hear their tunes being on soundtracks for movies like Jaws and those old-school Elvis flicks, and I mean this in the best way possible. I am on a mission to catch their live set, and show up in a bathing suit.
TarantinosNYC’s EP, Surfing The Silver Screen, is available now, and I highly suggest you pick one up. And don’t worry, I love the beach, but don’t surf, however, I am still entitled to love surfer music! I think the reason I am such a fan is, through the ear, it’s lighthearted and fun, however, so many punk and rock bands have been influenced by surf rock, and this is no exception to the rule.
If you want to learn more about TarantinosNYC, join their family (figuratively, not literally), and catch their live shows, be sure to check out their official website, tarantinosnyc.com. You can find everything there from music, show dates, videos, photos, and more. You can also find them on Facebook and ReverbNation. Be sure to tell them Maria sent you, and keep in mind my friends, I found them because they found me! It’s always beneficial to share and get your band name out there, on all fronts.
I will be back next week with another act of your liking. In the meantime, I am going to continue to ride my musical wave. Surf’s up, my friends!
