Paul Valentino Interview Prime Time
They bring in the crowds wherever they play. And what they play is everything from Big Band to Bruce Springsteen, Chicago to Motown, Top 40 to 50’s Rock ‘n Roll. A musical diversity really that spans from the 1940’s to today. The seven guys that make up this band have really made a name for themselves in Central New York. We are of course talking about Prime Time. Recently we spoke with Prime Time vocalist Paul Valentino about the group. Q – Paul, how did Prime Time come to be?…...
Al Wolfe Interview Smokin’
Smokin’ They bill themselves as “The Hottest Classic Rock Band In Central New York” and it’s easy to see why. You see, Smokin’ really delivers!! They’re a terrific band. Founding member Al Wolf (bassist/vocalist) is an original member of both Sam And The Twisters and The Livin’ Ennd. The recording of “Fooba Wooba John” and the “Transylvania Twist” by Sam And The Twisters, remain to this day, the biggest selling records from Central New York. It’s no wonder then that we decided to sit down with Al Wolf for one…...
Dave Hanlon Interview Dave Hanlon’s Cookbook
In the history of Syracuse music, there have been only two drummers that captured the public’s attention: one was Danny Coward (of Buddy Grealy) and the other was Dave Hanlon. Dave Hanlon made a name for himself over the years in bands such as Dove, Duv, C.R.A.C., Duke Jupiter, and most recently Dave Hanlon’s Cookbook. In 1996, Dave Hanlon’s Cookbook took home a Sammy for Best Contemporary Jazz Band. The group has performed at the Oswego Harbor fest, the Syracuse Jazz Fest, the Rochester Lilac Fest, the Glenora Wineries Jazz…...
Jake Bunger Interview Rattlebasket
They’ve opened shows for Blue Oyster Cult, Little Feat, Nightranger, Paul Rodgers and the Jerry Garcia Band. John Popper of Blues Traveler has called them “A great band.” Their CD. has been getting airplay at college stations around the Northeast as well as commercial stations in Syracuse and Utica. They’ve even had a Pizza named after them! We’re talking about Rattlebasket. Guitarist Jake Bunger spoke with us about the band. Q – Jake, this band of yours has been getting a lot of attention lately. But, you didn’t start it…...
Tom Townsley Interview
One of the better known and most visible groups on the Blues Scene is Tom Townsley and The Backsliders. Tom, of course is the host of Sunday Night Blues on WAER-FM 88.3 and the founder of Syracuse’s annual Harmonica Blow-off. Tom and The Backsliders released a CD in 1998 titled “Moonlight Worker” on Poverty Records which they enjoyed great success with. We’re honored to present an interview with one of Syracuse, New York’s most talented musicians – Mr. Tom Townsley. Q – Tom, how long have you and The Backsliders…...
Mike Estep Interview
Performing throughout Central New York since May 1998, the Mike Estep Band has made quite a name for themselves. With two CD releases, leader Mike Estep has racked up an impressive array of critical reviews. Mike Estep talked with us about his background and the band he put together. Q – Mike, for the longest time you were a solo acoustic act, weren’t you? A – Pretty much, yeah. Q – So, why did you put a band together? A – Well, I did the first CD, ” One Lane…...