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 has come up periodically, but usually just rumors started by those wonderful fans and friendly bands who keep asking about it. In recent days, as the band closes in on what would be the 15th anniversary of their first show, these talks have gone from rumor to serious discussions amongst a few members. Will it happen? Time will tell....
"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!
RIP. Many of my high school Friday and Saturday nights were spent at the Fireside with my friends seeing punk/ska shows (of which Telegraph shows were some of my favorites). And for the record, I loved "Switched On" from the start.
Man I have a gripe with this band they are my fav ska band and i had planned to see them in England probably in 2000 but the drummer was ill and we had to watch The Eclectics instead who were PANTS. But however i must admit defeat in the knowledge that i'll never get to see them live (though i did say the same thing with Gorilla Biscuits so maybe there is hope only if a litle). Anyway as i sit here listening vinyl copy of 10 songs (yes i'm so cool, wish i had a sham 69 shirt) i shed a tear for the band that once was.
Why is this Paul guy talking to reunion? Thats crazy talk. The parka kings and ganster fun runion we amazing. A Telegraph reunion will be even better. I do agree the last show was tons of fun and needs to be put out. Jeff told me sometime latter in the year it might be out and possably a cd of b sides.
I'll never forget Mark standing scared shitless with his back to the crowd like he was in some DC band; too afraid to move. Then all of a sudden he loses his frickin mind to Dees Revenge. God I miss the days when we were all young and life was complex in a different way!
