Artist description Ramshackle's sound exhibits the blend of truly unique personalities that form the members of this band. The group plays and writes songs from genres and styles including hard rock, pop, grunge, ballads, and worship tunes. They also have a large repertoire of cover songs. The message of their music reflects the depth of faith present in the lives of these young men. Songs portray experiences that listeners easily relate to and find meaning in. An understanding of the Word is also very evident and central to the message behind Ramshackle's carefully written and thought provoking lyrics. Talent abounds in Ramshackle and audiences are drawn not only to the addicting, groove-inducing sound of Ramshackle's music, but the individuals behind it who point to Christ through the spirit of joy, love, and concern for others in which performances are delivered.

Music Style Christian Pop/Rock

Musical Influences U2, Foo Fighters, DC Talk, Switchfoot,

Similar Artists Foo Fighters, DC Talk, Ben Folds Five

Artist History Ramshackle consists of four members who all attend the University of Northern Iowa. Three of the four members are brothers. T.J. Calcara (22) is majoring in vocal music education and writes most of the music and lyrics for the band. He also plays the keyboard and sings lead vocals. Brian Calcara (19) is studying marketing and plays the bass as well as sings in the band. Adam Calcara (21) also writes music, plays lead guitar, and is working on a business degree. Ryan DeCook (19) is the band's drummer and is majoring in instrumental music education. The band originated at New Covenant Bible Church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa five years ago. Audiences from Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, and Missouri have enjoyed Ramshackle's music. They have shared the stage with numerous big name Christian recording artists including Petra, The Normals, LaRue, Scarecrow and Tinmen and Aurora. They have also performed for church youth events, retreats, and music festivals, at public high school events, the Iowa State Fair, the Freedom Festival and Barbeque Round-up in Cedar Rapids, and have made television appearances on the Variety Club Telethon. In addition to their impressive schedule in the United States, Ramshackle has received worldwide attention. International missions organization, TACO (Turkey Asia Creative Outreach), invited the band to do a concert tour of Turkey in June of 2002. This 27-day tour took the band to cities all throughout the country including Istanbul, Ankara, Antioch, Ephesus, Tarsus and many others. They are planning to go back in August of 2003.

Group Members TJ Calcara - Lead Vocals/Keyboard; Adam Calcara - Lead Guitar; Brian Calcara - Bass/vocals; Ryan DeCook - Drums

Instruments Electric guitar, acoustic guitar, bass, keyboards, drums

Albums Ramshackle: Self-titled

Additional Info Check out our website for info on purchasing CDs

Location Cedar Rapids, Iowa - USA

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