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Band Biography:
SPIFF was an eclectic rock experience created by the synergy of its five members. The music, almost entirely born out of "jams", reflected the strength of the band's interrelation. This creative method, coupled with the varied influences of each member, resulted in a musical dynamic that crossed genres. From Funk to Punk, Core to Pop, consistency was found in the band's enthusiasm and humor.
Formed in Cincinnati, Ohio, SPIFF grew out of the band Spaceman Spiff. Tim Durham (bass) and Jeff Conner (guitar) became acquaintances while playing in the Cincinnati original music scene in the mid 90's. Tim and SPIFF's drummer, Fred Troxell , were the rhythm section of the locally popular Wishing for Leander . Jeff was performing as vocalist, guitarist and bassist in multiple projects.
In 1998, Tim and Jeff crossed paths again, and discussed forming a cover band ( Spaceman Spiff ) as a side project. They contacted Fred, and began rehearsing.
Although Tim and Jeff were fulfilling lead vocalist duties, the idea of a female singer was appealing; especially in the pop-cover format. After placing multiple ads, with varying degrees of success, they came into contact with Amy Constantine (vocals...now, Amy Cunningham ). Within the first few minutes of Amy's audition, the "chemistry" was evident.
During initial rehearsals, the group effortlessly began to play off of each other. The spontaneous jams would often turn into fully developed songs within the course of minutes. This ease of writing encouraged the band to collaborate more intently, and was moving SPIFF from the status of cover-band/side project to an original music focus.
Another member was added after the group began discussing the benefits of a full time keyboardist (Amy was playing keys as needed at the time). An acquaintance, Patrice Schlick (now, Patrice Schlick-Aguiar ), was approached. Patrice brought a greater musical and vocal breadth to the band.
After the release of " SPIFF - The EP " in 2001, the band dropped all cover performances, and focused solely on original music. Performing regionally, the band was featured at such events as Chicks Rockfest ('03 & '04), the television program City Nights, Midpoint Music Festival ('03), the inaugural Chicks on the Road mini Tour, Women Express '04, and many other events and venues.
In the summer of '04, after a year with a drummer filling in for the as then departed Fred, the members decided to go their separate ways. Although different artistic and life directions caused the band to dissolve, the strong friendships still remain. A reunion of the original five members in '05 showed much of the magic still alive, and laid the groundwork for future reunions and performances.
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