Rebecca Sometimes -vocals, guitar
Steve Schuster -vocals, bass
Mollie Hayward -vocals, flute
Julius Otto -organ, clapping
Phil Merker -drums
Influences
Antibales, Candi Staton, Carole King, Chaka Khan, Dizzy Gillespie, Edward Gorey, Edward Hopper, Etta James, Fela Kuti, Gladys Knight, Hypnotic, James Brown, Jimi Hendrix, John Lee Hooker, Mavis Staples, New York City, O.V. Wright, Pietr Mondrian, Stevie Wonder, Telly Savalas, The 5th Dimension, The Flamingos, The Kinks, The Ronettes, The Staples Singers, The Temptations, The Zombies, Thelonious Monk, Vince Guaraldi
Sounds Like
Loud clanging noises followed by the sweet melodic whispers of birds.
After shows, people occasionally come up to the Sometimes Family with a question: “Hey, are you guys really related?” It might seem silly but, watching the group together, they communicate in a way that begs the question. The group shares a musical bond that is reflected both onstage and in how they enjoy performing the music of songwriter Rebecca Sometimes. Sometimes writes with both delicacy and intensity, moving from pretty melodies and simple lines to belted-out soul and blues numbers.
The music of the Sometimes Family ranges from rock to blues, soul to doo-wop, complete with three-part harmony. Coming from varied musical backgrounds, each member brings different influences to the group, creating an eclectic mix that works unexpectedly well. Steve Schuster, originally a guitarist, plays the bass. A sensitive and accurate musician, his subtle suggestions always bear consideration. Rebecca Sometimes has never wanted more than to create good songs. A guitar player since sixth grade, her songs reflect years of dedication to the instrument. Mollie Hayward comes from a classical flute background, and has enjoyed expanding her musical ideas in the brand-new world of “being in a band.” Julius Otto began on guitar and mandolin, then found himself wanting to play more and more types of music. He began to play keyboards and percussion, eventually joining up with the Sometimes Family to add the distinctive organ sound. Drummer Phil Merker is the latest bundle of joy the stork has flown in to the arms of the Sometimes Family.
The Sometimes Family can be sweet and delicate or gritty and soulful. Never saccharine, always unexpected, their music is a distinctive and fresh take on soul, blues, and rock.
Sorry for disappearing for over a year. I've been through more drama within that time frame than ever. I moved to the Albany Park area of the city back in May, and I'll be moving again by month's end, hopefully in Lincoln Park area of Chicago (to be closer to work...I recently got transferred due to the economy). I WILL BE AT YOUR Nov. 29 show. WE NEED TO CATCH UP, NO EXCUSES! LATER CHICA! :)
So good to see you and play with you at Subterranean! You all are great!
SITA owes you thank yous for letting us practice at your house and for lending us your drums and for all the help and support you give us. Thank you for including us on your poster.
I can't wait to get together with you all again and get to know each one of you better!
hey Sometimes Family, very much enjoyed your set as well. it was good to meet you guys, and heartening that both of our bands were able to maintain despite that, er, sound guy... i'm sure you know what i mean.
You guys rocked on Monday! It was great to hear you live!! We had such a good time. I like how you changed your profile picture to a pic from the show!
i tried some of your lasagna. you were right. you gain ten lbs per bite. i found raymond burr nibbling at it too. he said he doesnt need any more food until christmas now.
Let's hope you can make THIS one: Phil Angotti among many others will play a big role. 12-20-08 at Viaduct Theater! here's the trailerhttp://www. youtube. com/watch?v=GsV3FV4b-7U