My name is Gene Smilek. I go to NC State in Raleigh, NC. I grew up and lived in Powhatan, VA prior to college. I never thought that I would do an acoustic project, but here I am. It all started when I was in a band back in high school when I played drums. While I was in the band, I slowly began to write some acoustic material on the side. A select few people heard some of this material back then. Then in December 2007/January 2008, my friend Jon Farrow and I recorded two of my songs and that is how my acoustic project was born.
My music has gone a long way ever since the recordings in Jon Farrow’s room. Ever since then, I have had the honor of sharing the stage with some big time touring bands, as well as some small town local bands. This isnt too bad for a 19 year old self taught acoustic instrumentalist. Despite being instrumental, opinions from many different people have stated that my music creates melodies in their heads that are not necessarily played by me, but just by their creative mind. Hopefully you get the chance to see me live and see what the commotion is all about.
Here are some bands I have shared the stage with...
A Suffocating Signal (R.I.P.)
The Appreciation Post
Asleep At The Bottom of the Sea
Backseat Goodbye
The Bigger Lights (Doghouse Records)
Blameshift
The Bride Wore Black
Can You Keep A Secret (R.I.P.)
Conditions
Embracing Goodbye
The Fastest Kid Alive
Fight Fair (Triple Crown Records)
For The Foxes
Friends For Hire
Holiday Parade
Jacobs Ladder (JMB Records)
Jukebox The Ghost
Look Mexico (Stiff Slack/ Lujo Records)
Love&Reverie (Firefly Music)
Mercy Mercedes (The Milita Group)
My Favorite Highway (Virgin Records)
Pictures In Pieces (ft. Chris Barrett of The Friday Night Boys)
Racing Kites
The Radiance Effect (Kikstart Records)
The Ready Set
Say You Will
The Secret Handshake (Triple Crown Records)
Secret Lives of the Freemasons (Victory Records)
Seven Story Fall
Sunday Night Scene (Crystal Lake Records)
Thieves and Villains (Victory Records)
Vega Under Fire
The Woodwork (Roundkid Records)
The Years Gone By
Your Name In Vain (Tragic Hero Records)
There may be days when you get up in the morning and things aren't the way you had hoped they would be. That's when you have to tell yourself that things will get better. There are times when people disappoint you and let you down. But those are the times when you must remind yourself to trust your own judgments and opinions, to keep your life focused on believing in yourself. There will be challenges to face and changes to make in your life, and it is up to you to accept them.
constantly keep yourself headed in the right direction for you. It may not be easy at times, but in those times of struggle you will find a stronger sense of who you are. So when the days come that are filled with frustration and unexpected responsibilities, remember to believe in yourself and all you want your life to be. Because the challenges and changes will only help you to find the goals that you know are meant to come true for you.
hmmm, hi gene. i think you're stunning. i wanna meet you one day. i dont think ive ever met someone like you before. you're defin- ately one of a kind. i love it.
Thanks for the kind words, and nice meeting you. Have a wonderful week. Enjoy your day and all that you do. Cool space you have!!! Greetings from DeMente.