Artist description Hat is a San Francisco-based group of four musicians who have played together in various combinations for almost a decade. An eclectic, eccentric bunch united by a shared love of real music, Hat blends a variety of influences to create their own "melting pot"; sound. Latin, motown, funk and jam rock sounds elbow for space with smart lyrics ranging from quick-witted shaggy-dog stories to moody introspection. Their red-hot open-ended instrumentals impossible to stay still, and the vocal harmonies and variety of instrumentation and arrangement showcase the talent that Hat brings to every show. Hat is Phil Green, and guitarist whose songwriting talents help define the Hat way of thinking. Hat is Eddie Gonzeles, , guitarist and occasional mandolin player whose creative and English language songs give Hat a distinctive flair. Hat is Rev Jackson, bass player and backing vocalist who sometimes comes to the fore with a powerhouse lead vocal performance. Hat is Ian Elkus, veteran drummer, backing vocalist and versatile musician who guests on different instruments. Hat's first CD, Illumination, has been on heavy rotation on many San Francisco jukeboxes since it's release. Their new video, "Fee Fo Fum" was released to universal acclaim in December. New live recordings from their popular stand at the The Red Devil Lounge are now making an appearance and, with more live shows, more releases and more new material, 2001 is the year of Hat. Hat loves you, and you'll love Hat.

Music Style modern rock

Musical Influences Los Lobos, Sly Stone, Willie Nelson, King Crimson, Cuban/Latin Artists

Similar Artists Dave Matthews Band, Los Lobos, Tom Petty, King Crimson

Artist History The story of HAT really begins at Hayes House, the residence at 861 Hayes Street in San Francisco that housed future members of such diverse bands as HAT, the Myopics, and Grassfire (or whatever they're currently called). HAT can trace its roots back to the Discordians, made up of Rev, Phil, and Harper Schantz, flautist and co-vocalist. The Discordians did one show under this line-up (along with percussionist Rich Strauss, who left immediately after the show), before Harper left S.F. and the band. Phil and Rev, wanting to continue the music making, beefed up the lineup by adding Eddie on guitar and Adam Aaronson on drums. This lineup did one show under the name Discordians, a gig with the Myopics at the Peacock Lounge on Haight Street, featuring special guest and future HAT member Teri Untalan on vocals and viola. This show could really be considered the first HAT gig, the name they played under notwithstanding. From there, the core line up of Rev, Eddie, and Phil remained unchanged. Teri spent quite some time as a member before pursuing solo projects. The drum throne was always something of a hot seat - although nothing along the lines of Spinal Tap. Adam left to go on tour with the Thrill Kill Cult and was replaced by Ian, who after a brief stint left the band (a decision he would live to regret), and was replaced by Tony Daprano, who remained in the band until the recording of the first CD,

Group Members Phil Greene Eddie Gonzales Ian Elkus Rev Jackson

Instruments bass, drums, 2 guitars, lead vocals, BG vocals, percussion

Albums Illumination

Additional Info Bonus track: Nixon

Location San Francisco, CA - USA

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