Artist description Acoustic pop-rock with hints of classical, jazz & funk. Clasically trained violinist turned drummer turned guitarist takes up singer/songwriting. On these recordings, Adrian West plays the core parts (guitar, vocals, drums, percussion, violin) and captures exactly the band sound and intensity he hears in his head. Rhythm is key in every song. Lyrics tell a story and act as a rhythm instrument. Interesting arrangements. Bay Area musicians Vanessa Lowe, Michael Stadler, John Lester and Jeri Sykes fill out the sound with backup vocals, bass, mandolin, banjo, lap steel, sax, clarinet and what have you.

Music Style Acoustic-guitar-driven pop rock with clever (and some say, wholesome) lyrics and a hot but minimalist rhythm section

Musical Influences Talkingheads, Paul Simon, Dave Matthews,Dar Williams,Rickie Lee Jones, R.E.M., Philip Glass, Antonin Dvorak

Similar Artists Paul Simon,Dar Williams,Talkingheads,Dave Matthews,Rickie Lee Jones,Lyle Lovett,Shawn Colvin,McGarrigle Sisters,REM,R.E.M.,Elliot Smith,XTC,Joe Jackson,Gillian Welch,Emilou Harris,Michelle Shocked

Artist History Adrian West, a native of Montreal now living in the Bay Area, is a classical violinist turned rock 'n roll drummer turned singer/songwriter. After playing drums & violin in bands throughout high school and college, and after coming home from watching one too many inspiring performers feeling sad that he wasn't writing music himself, he decided to learn the guitar and have a go at the singer/songwriter thing. So far, he's enjoyed the experience. Adrian has only played a few gigs, mainly in San Francisco, but is gearing up to perform more often. Live, Adrian is backed up by Joe Hayes on bass & saxophone and Michael Stadler on various stringed instruments. Adrian also regularly backs up talented Bay Area singer/songwriter Vanessa Lowe (www.vanessalowe.com) on violin on her performances and recordings.

Group Members Michael Stadler, Joe Hayes, other guests.

Instruments Acoustic guitar, vocals, bass, drums, lap steel, mandolin, banjo, saxophone

Albums 5-Song Demo

Location Oakland, CA - USA

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