David Nicol (vocals, acoustic guitar, harmonica)
Alec Galloway (vocals, electric/acoustic guitars)
Stephen Power (electric/acoustic guitars, vocals)
Craig Weir (electric/acoustic bass guitar, mandolin)
Alan Macintosh (drums, percussion)
Influences
The Beatles, The Byrds, Steve Earle, The Who, The Hold Steady; Lyle Lovett, Ryan Adams, Kevin Montgomery, Mastodon, Teenage Fanclub, AC/DC.
Folk-Rock, Americana, Country, Rock and anything with 'soul'.
As befits five individuals, the Lazarenkos have diverse influences ranging from classic US/UK guitar bands to country storytellers and covering Americana, folk, homegrown Celtic music with a little bit of West Coast pop harmony thrown into the pot. This mix is evident on the recent self recorded mini-album 'Eight Foot Honey' which gives a taste of these influences blended into seven original songs and it's companion CD 'White Arrows' a three track sampler from this collection.
Although mostly found in their full-fledged electric incarnation the band have recently been exploring their acoustic side, working on the idea that being unplugged doesn't necessarily mean losing power or passion - good songs will shine in any context. To this end the band have recently performed acoustically at Greenock's Concert in the Square, the Butelive Festival and even at Greenock Art Gallery performing Watersongs a collection of songs loosely based on guitarist Alec Galloway's recent Art exhibition inspired by Greenock and the River Clyde which will hopefully be expanded into a full album in the near future.
Although these musical detours are intriguing and add new dimensions to the band they are always at their fundamental best when playing live. There is nothing to compare to the energy and excitement created when everything comes together and you witness a band playing and performing songs they clearly enjoy and believe in.
But don't just take my word for it listen and see for yourself !!
The Lazarenkos have performed live recently at various events and venues including Celtic Connections 2006, Oran Mor and the Fire and Water Festival.
The new CD album is due for release in Summer 2006
Hey! How's the weather over there? I just want to let you know that i'm coming to the UK in late May/early June to play bass with Kevin Montgomery and Tommy Allsup. Tommy played guitar with Buddy Holly, and is THE guy that flipped the coin with Ritchie Valens. I figured that with you being a musician that you would really be able to appreciate this show. Kevin made a little video at my studio last week while we were recording....check it out http://myspacetv. com/index. cfm?fuseaction=vids. individual&videoid=34589518
There are a series of shows in England and Scotland....dates are on my myspace.
We won't be doing my material, but it is a really special show, and Tommy is a true rock'n'roll legend.
Anyway, take care and hope to see you there.
DW
