Album Notes

The Exeter Popes is the singer/songwriter project to Stephen Lipuma. Stephen derives his sound from such influences as The Pastels, The Smiths, The Clientele and The Cocteau Twins, but Stephen’s approach is that of a folksinger. The make-up of the band is seemingly complex, but, in fact, minimal, just Stephen on guitar and MJB on drums. Stephen’s unique guitar-playing style is not quite finger picking, and creates the sound of multiple guitars playing all at once.

The Exeter Popes debut, self-titled EP will be released on White Shoe Records (a Brooklyn label formed to facilitate the release of their music) in January 2006. This EP is a solid collection of wonderment from this inexhaustible songwriter.

Stephen is the former front-man of the now-defunct Snob Hill. Snob Hill’s Brit-pop-like sound was a regular fixture at the now-defunct Luna Lounge and played popular NYC clubs like the Mercury Lounge, Sin-e, CBGBs, and Warsaw, to name a few. Stephen has joined forces with MJB (Michael J. Bowman), an equally prolific songwriter and hometaper, who has been playing in underground bands dating back to 1980 including Serious Journalism, The Astorians, The Hungry Dutchman (recipient of MTV's Basement Tapes Award), and more recently Brian Wilson Shock Treatment, JFK Jr. Royal Airforce and Mummies of the Insane. MJB shares Stephen’s vision and together their combined experience brings something new and different and exciting.

Stephen’s signature “Snob Hill sound” has evolved and matured into a very graceful collection of Popes’ songs. MJB’s drumming style beautifully compliments Stephen’s syrupy melodies. The year of the lady presents itself with the men who have seen the sun, the moon and the rain. Please join us in welcoming the Exeter Popes.