Mark Penxa - guitars
Jeffrey "sanguis" Petryczkowycz - vocals
John Reynolds - trumpet
Steve Kachnowski - trombone
Derek Grant - drums
Chris Brock - trombone
Matt Van - bass
Telegraph existed as a band (and even more so as an expierience) from 1993 (then called the Skolars) to 2001, when it all came to an end. At that point more than 20 people had graced the stage at one time or another to play the songs that we wrote, liked, even loved, then later hated (these are the same songs that you heard, liked, maybe loved, sometimes hated... like "switched on", which a lot of you liked or loved much later, at which point you said "i really like that record now!"). So, this being said, to the Class Of Telegraph 2001 that was there when the diplomas were handed out, thanks for stopping back by to visit with the faculty and your other alumnus! As for the new arrivals, the previous dialogue is to make certain you are aware that the band no longer exists as a working entity, and you can stop asking us to play your "local band showcase(!)" and the like. thanks to all!
An update on the members ala "where are they now?" coming soon!! If you have a song request send it along and it will get posted!
"Ska-pop bands used to come in two varieties: first, groups trying to raise ska to a more popularly accessible and thereby more financially rewarding platform, and second, clueless pop/rockers trying to be hip. The Telegraph provides the missing link: true ska aficionados with genuine and effective pop sensibilities."
PRESS RELEASE BIO:
"Digging up Telegraph's roots takes us back to Detroit, Michigan 1993, and the inception of a ska band named the Skolars. Formed by original members Mark Penxa and Jeffrey Sanguis, the band started making a place for itself in the midwest scene. "Ska wasn't as popular then as it is now," comments Sanguis, "we played it because we loved it. The music appealed to our pop styling as writers." The foundation for what would become Telegraph had been laid. In 1998, Parka King's bassist Matt Van was added to the fold, and Derek Grant, former drummer for Suicide Machines, also joined up. Riding the crest of ska bands before them, Telegraph has definitely begun making waves of their own!"
Since the bands break up some years back talk of a reunion show had come up periodically, but usually just rumors started by those wonderful fans and friendly bands who keep asking about it. Around the holidays of 2008 the guys got together and decided just such a show would be fun. everyone had come to a point where they were all on the same page about it, and on March 13th, 2009 close to 8 years to the date of their last show the "switched on" Telegraph line-up took to the stage at Small's in Hamtramck, MI. they shared the stage with Spick of it All, the Transfer and Hellmouth. many a video camera was present, and that footage is being tracked down in hopes of compiling it for some form of release. the band had a great time, and got to talk about a lot of ideas they all had for unreleased and out of print material, and the dozens and dozens of video tapes filled with past footage.
"Telegraph infuses their brand of ska/punk/pop with some nice doses of speed, humor and showmanship. Formerly known as the Skolars, their stylistic crossbreed keeps the kids screaming for more, all the while pondering the philosophical dilemma: To skank, to slam or to merely boogie? You’ll find a combination of both at their energetic live shows."
Abbreviated Discography
Switched On
Jump Up (2000 LP, CD)
Quit Your Band
Jump Up (1998 EP, CD)
"Open 24 Hours" b/w "Thanks"
Dashiki Clout (1997 Single, CD/Vinyl)
Ska American Style
Jump Up (1997 LP, CD/Vinyl)
The Skolars Collected: 93-96
Jump Up (1997 LP, CD/Vinyl)
Oh yeah! and "yes" to everyone who keeps asking if we have legal rights to the name still!
You guys were one of my favorite bands when I was in high school I remember seeing you guys countless times at the metro and you guys broke my nose with your cd and the misfits of ska 2 cd lol what a show
Jef, it was awesome talking to you at the Magic Stick last night. That was like the coolest night of my life, honestly. Thanks for all of the sound advice about starting a band. And I recall saluting you as I walked away, which is weird, since I don't salute people. Well we're definitely going to be at the day after Christmas show so peace.
Yo what're you doin tomarrow night? DEVILDRIVER IS AT HARPOS TOMARROW, ALL AGES! Only $15, hit me up, bring as many people as you can and we could possibly get you and a significant other in free of charge.
Come support YpsiMETAL and we'll love you. MASNEMA and many others opening for
DEVILDRIVER, HARPOS, ALL AGES, $15, MAY 2nd (TOMARROW)
i had a great time. thank you for doing "one last show". it rocked and i couldn't have asked for anything more. you took me back 10 years.. and it was GREAT seeing you all. xoxo
Awesome show last night at Smalls!! It was a great blast from the past. Me and my friend Angie used to travel all the way from Lapeer to see you guys every time you were at St. Andrews. We always found a way because you have always been the best band. I'm so glad you came back!!! Love you guys! Thanks for playing my FAVORITE song RUDE GIRL!! It made my night!