Charlie Parker
Robert Johnson
Thelonius Monk
Pat Metheney
Chick Corea
All Three Kings- Albert, Freddy and BB.
Ray Charles
Dr John
Stevie Ray
Buddy Cage
Johnny A (amazing..)
Robben Ford
Brent Mydland
Robert Cray
Professor Longhair
Mark Mercier
Forged in the traditional roots of modern music, many keyboard players often struggle to overcome stereotypes. Breaking free from convention and moving foreword is a challenge. Those who accept it often possess songwriting, singing and playing abilities that liberate them and allow the pursuit of higher levels of expression. Geoff Wadhams encompasses these qualities and delivers a compelling performance on his new album Sonic Equivalent Of Thrift Store Art. The third album of the trilogy embodies all the power and soul that have made Geoff a sought after player in the North East music scene.
Growing up in Connecticut playing both piano and guitar, Wadhams was surrounded by a musical family from birth. This gave him the foundation of classical, opera, blues and folk music. He explains “I never knew what I was going to hear at home, it was so diverse that I didn’t judge it. Opera influences from Dad and Mom’s Kingston Trio mixed with whatever was on the radio then. It all became part of of the symphony in my head” By high school,
Geoff was already in a couple of bands playing Hammond B3 and immersed himself in creating music. By then the die was long cast. “I remember pushing myself to get better, to be a better player and the challenge of taking what’s in my head and making it real with my hands. It’s every artist’s lifelong journey and I’m enjoying every bit of the ride!”
Geoff played in dozens of local acts over the years honing his craft with the Motown Review’s Yesterday Today And Forever band, The Stingrays, Johnny Vibrato And The Razorbacks, The Mayocks and most recently the Grateful Dead tribute band Shakedown and Boston’s Playin’ Dead.
He has also appeared with Max Creek, the late Clarence Gatemouth Brown and most recently joined on stage with Blues Traveler.
Geoff’s studio cleverly named PhatChanz has been the source of his three albums to date. “I started with a small bit of gear, a blank notebook and a dream” Geoff explains. “You have to believe in yourself and never give up. “ I was finishing up a session when lightning hit my house and wiped out my whole studio. It took out everything- and I had to start over. I think you always have to be willing to start from scratch. Writing, singing and playing all the instruments gives me creative freedom. But I strive to create the vibe that is often missing in one man recording efforts.” Geoff draws on his musical roots creating complex and compelling themes that weave through the tapestry of his albums. R&B, blues and rock ballads influence these recordings with lush vocal harmonies that are at times haunting and beautiful. Crossed My Mind from his album Temperament Tangent is a great example of this skilled approach. Someday My Soul from the first album Pine Box Therapy touches on the theme of being a prisoner of one’s own mind.
Geoff’s latest release Sonic Equivalent Of Thrift Store Art is a culmination of his effort and musical vision. Moonshine Runner is reminiscent of southern rock, Jupiter with its melodic Lydian twists and How They Shine as the haunting ballad with a catchy electric piano break. “I’m always looking for new sounds and ideas to incorporate into songs, and sometimes they come from the strangest places” says Geoff. “The offbeat ideas so often dismissed are usually the best elements of a song”.
Geoff is currently recording, promoting, and shopping his music online. He’s performing solo, duo and with bands. “It’s really exciting seeing the positive response to my songs and the way they integrate with the cover material we play” remarks Geoff. “People who see us have been genuinely supportive, and that keeps me going” Geoff will be expanding his horizons with new releases and appearances this year. “The future is full of possibilities and I’ll be working with some great players in the process”. Geoff, we will be expecting great things!
Right! Emmy mentioned that we helped celebrate your birthday over the summer and I also know that you are a fellow Leo. crazy myspace leadin me down the wrong road
..Geoff.W... if you or any band you know has enough material recorded for a cd check us out, we produce high quality cd's and cases and sell them .., the best thing is we provide our service for free! Check out the graphic below and visit our website for more details.
Hey, Geoff! Nice to finally get the add. Hope you see you guys again really soon. Thank you for being our friend and for the support. Feel free to stop by and enjoy our tunes. Peace, Glen
