Steve Banks - Drums
Steve Banks Drums: Steve has a B.A .and (Masters Degree in U.S. History and started playing drums at age 10 yrs. Steve was influenced by his uncles (The Paterson Brothers Band) as he played all through high school. After a long break he’s playing again and studies with Instructor’s Eric Majied, Winston (the foot) Britton and Tim Freeman. Steve has played in many church and local bands and is the featured drummer for “Keith O’Neal’s No Longer Singing the Blues Band”. Steve’s musical style is smooth and traditional jazz, funk, R and B. Steve’s quote is that History reminds us that with God’s Blessing, hard work, commitment, and talent anything is possible.” You must be true and honest to God, yourself and the musicians you perform with”.
Brett Cimbalik - Guitar
Brett has been playing guitar for over 10 years. He has played with various groups in the Ypsilanti area and enjoys many guitarist including Norman Brown, George Benson, Buckethead and Pat Metheny. Brett’s style ranges from smooth and traditional jazz, fusion, and funk.
Raphael Banks - Bass
Raphael has been playing for over 30 years and is a tremendous bassist. Plays various bass styles and various types of music using a mix of tradition and creativity
Two favorite quotes;
"Found I had to stand alone, blessed now I've got my own"
(EARTH, WIND & FIRE/Shining Star)
"You have you to complete and there is no deal"
(SLY & THE FAMILY STONE/Stand)
He is also the bassist for the group “The Other Brothers.
Smooth Operation was formed by Steve Banks with former Ah Yeah band member Brett Cimbalik. The group was eventually joined by outstanding bassist Raphael Banks and renowned keyboardist OVACiiR. Together they form the funky smooth seductive sound with major influences the Yellowjackets, keyboardist Oscar Peterson and Herbie Hancock, guitarist Norman Brown and Pat Metheny, as well as vibrophonist Roy Aryes.
My weekly music blog, Darron to be Different, promotes independent music on MySpace by allowing the bands and fans to write about themselves instead of the same old interviews. I'M ALWAYS LOOKING FOR BANDS TO CONTRIBUTE AND PROMOTE THEMSELVES - IF INTERESTED, PLEASE ADD ME OR E-MAIL ME!
This week - Blane of November talks about promoting bands through 'self promotion', Cara talks about Michael Jackson's influence on her life and I play devil's advocate with my opinion on Michael Jackson. Plus I have six new bands to check out PLUS EACH PERSON who comments my music blog gets entered to win a signed CD from Black Stone Cherry! All you have to do is comment and you are entered.
Thanks so much for your support and please stop by and check it out! If not, SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MUSIC!!!
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