Artist description On Beyond Zebra is one of Pittsburgh's premiere indie bands, bringing a revolutionary sound to the local scene that is refreshing in an era when musical diversity is hard to come by. Their unique style, catchy original songs and outstanding live performances demonstrate the experience, dedication and depth that make them the talent that they are. OBZ's music is an entertaining enigma. Each song has its own distinct personality. Their innovative albums are riddled with quirky humor, off-beat sentiment and fun, yet thought provoking statements, accommodating nearly any musical taste. Past albums, "..with Flavor Crystals" and "Gone Beyond," were critically acclaimed for their "experiment with diversity" (Byron Nash, Rock N Roll Reporter) and "straight ahead modern rock" (Will L., Listen.com). "The First 4," their most recent EP, is a four-song taste test of the upcoming, much anticipated release, "Boxes Made For Shoes." Scheduled for distribution later this summer, "Boxes Made for Shoes" is sure to be a hit. On Beyond Zebra's live shows are in a class all their own. In a single set, the group takes their audience up and down a musical spectrum, through jazz, blues, swing, ska, rock, and pop. OBZ doesn't stand on stage brooding and trying to look too cool for the room, their performances are inviting and enthusiastic. Lead singer, Janet, draws you in with her high energy and glowing stage presence, her vocals are beautiful and smooth. Not only a sensational guitar player, Matt is also a great vocalist, having a refined voice and a clear, precise delivery. Aaron is a polished, talented bass player, while Ed's exceptional drum skills rival that of any of the greats. The live show has a magnetism separate from their recordings, because you leave having experienced not only the music, but also the energy and soul of the band. Established in 1995, On Beyond Zebra is a professional, experienced group. They deliver high quality music, with style, class and talent. They have worked hard and are destined and determined to become one of the area's most prized bands.

Music Style Alternative Pop Rock

Musical Influences Anything catchy and melodic

Similar Artists B-52s, BNL, Cake, The Pretenders

Artist History Formed in 1995. First ep in 1996 1st Full CD "Gone Beyond" in 1999 OBZ has just finished recording the tracks for their next CD, "Boxes Made for Shoes" due out in September 2002.

Group Members Janet Pazzynski, Matt Sever, Barry Silverman, Ed Wiancko

Instruments Acoustic and electric guitar, drums, percussion, Djimbe, bass guitar.

Albums Gone Beyond, Boxes Made for Shoes (due September 2002)

Press Reviews An early review: SHOW REVIEW: On Beyond Zebra-LIVE By: Bernadette Giacomazzo Every afternoon at lunch time, Market Square in Pittsburgh holds a free concert showcasing some of the local indie bands. One such band is On Beyond Zebra, a middle-aged group consisting of Janet on lead vocals, Jake on guitar and harmonica, Sam on bass, and Ed on the drums. Sponsored by Pittsburgh's alternative station WXDX-FM at 105.9, Sprint PCS Communications, National Record Mart, and USA On-Ramp (http://www.usaor.net/market), On Beyond Zebra strutted their stuff on June 27, 1997, at 12 noon. They began their one-hour set with the Theme from Star Wars. It was a bit disjointed, and too bass-heavy. Still, they do put up a strong front and promise to be good musicians. The second song, however, "Mr. Slick", showcased Janet as a strong,bluesy-type singer, with a lot of Sheryl Crow(or maybe Bonnie Raitt?) influence. Her throaty warble has incredible energy, as though the about-30 year old vixen has a razorblade-suitcase full of tales worthy of an aged veteran. Gwen Stefani, she's not (and, might I add on a more personal note, thank GOD for that! My experience would have been considerably more painful had she been otherwise). "Charred", one of my favorite songs they'd performed, appears on the "In Your Breast Interest" album, whose proceeds go to breast cancer research. Admirably, On Beyond Zebra keep their political correctness intact. Musically, this song was more unplugged as Janet strummed the rhythm guitar and the high powered bass was toned down. Later, the quartet played a funked-up version of "Steel Coaster", and their second instrumental interlude, the "Buck Rogers" theme, sounded a bit more put together. Finally, they played "Glory Box", the song on the Romeo and Juliet trailer(NOT the soundtrack), and the violin accompaniment brought tears to my eyes. They lightened things up by inviting us to join their mailing list, and to put our favorite Fat Albert character next to our email address. Collectively, On Beyond Zebra prove to be a very strong band and put up a great front. Talented, experienced, and soulful, On Beyond Zebra promise to be strong contenders for a major-label signing. Also, as older musicians with a great deal of Dylan-esque soul, they should keep their collective hands off the pop-culture remote if they're to be taken seriously. Overall, however, I was impressed. RATING: B+.

Location Pittsburgh, PA - USA

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