Spanky and the Love Handles

Bio:

Clark is a very well loved and respected fixture in the New Orleans and Atlanta Arts and Music community. Born and raised in New Orleans, Clark began his musical life at the age of 12 showcasing his talents on television and local events on drums. By the time he was 15 he was playing the French Quarter strip bars and jazz clubs. During the 1970’s Clark had the added guitar to his tool bag and had the opportunity to work with Earl King (who was a close mentor), Lee Dorsey and Professor Longhair. While being one of the founding members of the Rhapsodizers (precursor to the Radiators), Clark also crossed paths with members of the Meters; George Porter and Zig Modiliste. Clark’s talent lies heavily in writing and producing as well as performing. The music he has written over the years has influenced many fans and those who have worked with him. It is what makes him stand out. Among producing Sue Wilkinson, Greg Barrett, Code Blue, The Love Handles and many others, he has produced his own solo record “Years in Exile”. Clark also produced a CD by the Subdudes called “Primitive Streak” which included guest performance from Bonnie Rait.

Bob Rice - Partially responsible for the opening with China in 1971 and is now working feverishly to control the world financial crisis. Bob is a very well respected drummer in the Atlanta area for at least 20 years. He has most notably played with: The Shadows, Chicago Bob Nelson, Luther Johnson, Jon Mooney, Dr. John, Rufus Thomas, Lazy Lester, Nappy Brown, Fatback Deluxe, JT Speed, Mudcat, Brother Dave Gardner, Big City Bob, jazz guitarist Tom Theobo, Vance Taylor with Earth Wind & Fire Snooky Pryor with the Blind Willies lineup.

Beth Vreeland – Flying in from Venezuela at the age of 16 in the early ‘80s Beth gravitated to the punk scene, picked up the bass and started playing. She played with Phreddy Vomit with Run Amoc, Vicious Fish, Bosa Nova and hardcore punk band Bam Bam. In 1987 she met Clark Vreeland and formed the band Room Service 88 followed by Mystery Monitors where Clark and Beth added Bob Rice, Steve Kuni and Jenny B. to their line up. During this time Beth found a love for the blues and consistently played around town with musicians such as Stoney Brooks, Randy Chapman among others. 20 years later Beth reunited with Clark and Bob to form Spanky and the Love Handles. ..

Member Since:

March 14, 2008

Members:

Clark


Beth


Bob




Spanky and the Love Handles


Photography by Tim Glover: www.glovemanmedia.com

Influences:

Meters, Funk Brothers, Earl King, Etta James, Jimi Hendrix, Dr. John, Allen Toussaint, The Wild Magnolias, Fleetwood Mac (before the chicks), Irma Thomas, George Clinton, James Booker, Taj Mahal, War, Cream, Joy Division, Nina Simone, Usher, Screaming Jay Hawkins, Amy Whinehouse, Tool, Otis Redding, Professor Longhair, Velvet Underground, The Wild Tchoupitoulas

Sounds Like:

the professors of raw, sloppy, funky, dirty, blues