Purchase a copy of their late CD: Gertrude's Hearse, Wörst
The sound of gravel crunching beneath the tires of the hearse as it rolls through the iron gates. In the distance a lone fiddle cries
to the grey dawn. An alabaster stone marks the spot where the hearse pulls to a final stop.
After all, who called for the undertakers?
photo by Marika Garland
Gertrude's Hearse is a band hailing from La Conner, Washington. The band was formed atop the hill by a bunch a good fellas and guitarist Raymond John: adding Yusuf Kilgore, Matt Clausen, Keith Stone, Tim Daniels and a plethera of other players to become one of the areas hottest bands. In a three year period, they have built an outstanding repertoire of music ranging from folk, country, and rock, to bluegrass, R&B, and punk. No one else has their style, their energy, or their theme. Gertrudes Hearse has the flexibility and versatility to perform with some or all of its members. They can readily cater to the more intimate as an acoustic-style duo/trio or elaborate with an all-out rock & roll 7+ piece grandstand-style band.
Gertrude(grrr-trood) -
An old-time name representing the style of music from which the band bases its sound. They are equally comfortable playing acoustically, around a single can microphone, or plugged into a PA on-stage. Versatility has been an important factor in their early success as a band.
Hearse(her-sss) -
A car used to transport a coffin to a burial site. It is also a somewhat taboo word in the English language, not often used and retaining a sort of mystery. The name of the band is hard to get out of the heads of those who have said it aloud or read it in print. It also offers a theme for the bands logos, artwork, and trademark. This too has played a key role in the bands early notoriety in the area.
The undertakers and country-rock-folk-grassin' singers gaining quite a reputation in the Pacific Northwest are commonly known as Gertrude's Hearse. They are fast becoming legend, often imitated, and never reproduced. Look for them makin their way through your town soon. Mothers watch yer daughters, fathers git yur guns, brothers watch yer tounges, and everyone git ready for a shin splittin good time when Gertrude's Hearse rolls into town.
What others are saying about Gertrude's Hearse:
"A hard dancing and foot stomping favorite from Thurston to Whatcom counties, Gertrude's home is clearly the Skagit. From Ross Lake to the flood plains, the love is steeped thoroughly into their songs. As is their love for wit and irreverence.
Talented performers that one has to see live, Getrude's Hearse' studio effort brings the tunes into the homes of those of us who already know and love them well, as well as to the new listener, with a depth of polish and beauty that it can be hard to catch in a rowdy barroom. "Wörst" is drop dead gorgeous. It's a good thing the undertakers are near!"
- Betsy Starshine Delph, Lake Diablo Times
“Gertrude's Hearse plays wild music and crazy live shows, winning fans all across the Northwest, all the while keeping with their undertaker theme—making them one of the most original acts in the area.”
words can't explain how awesome it was to see you guys last night! i missed going to the shows! you guys were great. have an awesome weekend up at mt. baker. =)
Very nice. I approached the idea with the troupe last night, and they were excited about it. I'll make 100% sure during rehearsal tonight. Stay tuned...
So wait a minute, I have to wait till Halloween till I see you guys play at the Fish again? Damn, that's just way too long. It would be easier to handle if I at least got to serve you beers every now and again.
Don't worry the review is coming. You have to understand putting together a magazine is hard yo! I'm trying to piece everything together. Thanks for checking in.
