Those words are synonymous with Opal Maven, simply because of the perfect way that the band inter-mingles classic influences with modern vision and substance. The band, although formed in Kelowna, B.C. in late 2007, may well have been conceived in a dark alley behind Cobo Hall, Detroit, in the early 1970's. Their music contains every element necessary to remain relevant and memorable for decades to come; their lyrics, a commentary on everything from the urgency of time, to ancient folklore. For connoisseurs of fine rock and roll, this is the first great band in a very long time.
When John Kellerman (guitar and vocals) and Curt Reimer (drums and vocals) first met with the intention of creating their perfect band, they had no more than a couple of song ideas and a desire to go beyond what other bands were doing. They were searching for a more rock and roll style, and began writing songs that exemplified their classic rock influences; the result of these early songwriting sessions can be found on their debut album. To round out the rhythm section, bassist Nathan Blair was asked to join, and as a trio, they continued to write a batch of songs as well as perfect their live show, which also featured many classic covers that spanned decades of rock and roll.
It was obvious that they should record their growing repertoire of songs, and so they began laying the groundwork for their first full album of material. What would eventually become this album took a full year of writing, recording, and mixing, taking appropriate time out to continue playing live throughout their home and beyond. The album features a notable guest spot by ex-Alice Cooper lead guitarist, and current Happypill frontman, Ryan Roxie, who plays a smoking lead spot on the track 'Long Run'.
Opal Maven has performed all around the Okanagan in their formative years while expertly honing their live spectacle for audiences. Now, with guitarist Dan Jackson added to the lineup, the band is on the verge of releasing their self-titled debut album, while gaining exposure throughout British Columbia. The album will be available in over 300 retailers across Canada (including HMV and Chapters/Indigo), as well as worldwide on iTunes and CD Baby. They will continue to perform throughout Canada in 2010, and are always writing new material as they eagerly forge ahead on their journey to force all of the rehabilitated into a rock and roll relapse.
Ever wondered what to do in the event of a nuclear threat?
A while ago I found stuff that inspired me to make this film:
Living Under the Shadow of the Nuclear Umbrella
Both artistic (ensure you get the background music!) and educational, it primarily comprises official British government civil defence advice.
Though source materials are quite aged, much remains relevant today.
I encourage all to visit the YouTube page to learn more (Show support! Rate! Comment!) and responsibly circulate as widely as possible, here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UaIim3Rj7L4
Good to have you as a friend! So great to see the internet in action this way, shortening distances between people.
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It was fantastic to finally play with a band that plays real rock n roll!You guys did some great tunes!I'm glad you enjoyed playing the two shows with us.I can't wait to play some more shows with you guys soon!I loved singing with the band for Breakin the law!You guys are super tight!Thanks for the comment John! -Sev
Hey Opal Maven, We got some great news! It is now official that BADMOUTH will open for Zodiac Mindwarp in Stockholm, Sweden on the 24th of April. This only proves that 2009 is the year of BADMOUTH. More great news will be official very soon. Stay tuned, my friend.
Click image to find out more about future tour dates!
Opal, Thanks for visiting our site and for being our friend. We hope that your week is going well. Attached are pictures of Black Angel when The Turners (Audrey Turner, singer and wife of Ike Turner; and Ronnie Turner, bass player, and son of Ike and Tina Turner) were in Black Angel. The first picture is of Ronnie, Audrey and keyboard player, Cory Orosco, outside the recording studio in Santa Barbara. The second picture is of Ronnie and Audrey and guitar player, Fernando "Mojo Man" Perez, and drummer, Tina Stefens, just prior to a sound check at The Roxy in Los Angeles. We still record with Audrey, Cory and Tina. Fernando is in Alexandria, Egypt and Ronnie is in France. Best wishes.
J. C. Martin Black Angel Santa Barbara, California