Jeff Uzzel (guitar/vocals) grew up in Simsbury, CT where he began his musical training in composition and improv at the age of 10. He played the trumpet in various jazz bands and ensembles and picked up the guitar during the summer before his freshman year in high school. "Though I loved playing jazz trumpet, the guitar provided a medium through which I could compose my own music. I was writing songs less than a month after I started learning the guitar - it's become an obsession." During the last eight years, Jeff has been experimenting with reggae, blues, rock, and funk styles to create a unique genre of music.
About a year ago, Jeff and Tal met up for a casual jam to test the waters, and they quickly realized that their music was symbiotic. Kyle joined the band shortly after: "He was a mutual friend of ours and has a natural talent for drums. He doesn't have a set to practice on in Asheville, but he's tight like a tiger. I'm amazed at how quickly he has matured as a drummer."
Then God said, "Let there be Jabberwocky!", and there was Jabberwocky. And when He looked upon the Jabberwock, He saw that it was good.
Tal Crews (keys/vocals) was born in Winston-Salem NC, youngest of five. "I've been surrounded by music since the womb. From singing in church with the family, to school choirs and plays, there's been no larger influence on my life than music."
Tal was introduced to the piano as a toddler, sitting outside his sisters' piano lessons, listening to a southern gospel piano. "I didn't really pick up the piano untill I was about 11 yrs. old. I was started on an old gospel style of octaves and chords which dramatically influenced the way that I play music today. Learning chord structures and progressions off the bat made it a walk in the park to begin writing songs and developing my ear as a musician"
In time, Tal was proficient enough to enter composition contests, join several bands, and collaborate on almost any genre of music. "Through my studies with several teachers and fellow musicians, I have been able to reach far beyond the musical realm where I grew my roots. As of now, I feel more drawn to the soul side of music. When I discovered jazz, funk, and blues something connected in me that, to this day, still holds my ear and rhythm in a groove-driven trance."
"I'm really excited about Jabberwocky. I think we've got the moxy to kick some ass in the music industry, and there's no telling how far we'll reach."
Kyle Townsend, drummer for Jabberwocky, was born in Washington, D.C., the first of two chilidren (one younger brother). He attends UNC-Asheville where he studies Psychology and Music. Kyle has had a passion for music "as long as he can remember". "Being a rock musician has always been my dream, the only dream. Everything else is just a back-up plan."
His other hobbies include rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, and pretty much anything to do with nature. "Yoga and meditation are also key to my mental health. There's nothing like the euphoria you can achieve from deeply spiritual exercises. I've discovered new ways to get high without the hangover."
Originally focused on guitar and vocals, Kyle began classical guitar lessons at only 9 years old. He was the lead singer of his first band, Stylus, which brought him moderate success at his high school social scene. Playing several shows at a local venue, Ziggy's, this is when Kyle realized that being a performer was truly his dream. "It's electric when you're out there on stage. The blue and green lights, so hot on your face you break into a sweat, and it literally is the heat of the moment. Everyone watching, waiting, anticipating. That's what I live for."
hey tal. hope things are going well with the band and all. we gotta catch up sometime when im in winston. if you ever wanna come catch a show in raleigh of the band im playing in now that would be sweet. we're playing at the brewery next tuesday here so come if you can. take it easy and good luck with the band!
I guess I just had to be the one to pop it..............hows it feel to have your first comment? I hope this isn't a let down. They get better, I promise. Maybe I'm not trying hard enough. I'll think of something better next time.
