Joe Rockhead is a four-piece alternative rock/pop group from the central Massachusetts area. Formed in 1993 its original members were Tom Hurley (song writer/guitarist/lead singer) Chuck Schliker (drums) and Brian Hill (bass). The group went through a number of bassists before recording their 1995 debut CD, “Shangrila-di-da” with Bill Carey at the world famous “Longview Farm” located in N. Brookfield, Ma. Joe Rockhead enjoyed great success during the late 1990’s and was twice voted as the “Best Live Rock Act” by critics, music writers, and fans. Joe Rockhead often toured to New York City and the “East Village” to play various clubs such as CBGB's and Spiral. In 1998 “J.R.” released it’s critically acclaimed second record titled “Sheltering Sky”. By 2000 Bassist Chris Chamberland took over as lead guitarist. Bassist Mike Roberts filled out the line up that remained the same until 2004. That same year the band released “King” and continued to play steadily in the Boston area. 2002 brought the release of Joe Rockhead’s last self-titled CD. Tom Hurley continued to write songs for the band but a 5th CD is still in the works. In 2004 Chris was replaced by Robin Stieger. Tom And Robin still currently performs as the acoustic guitar duo known as “The drunken Uncles”. www.drunkenuncles.net
Although Joe Rockhead stopped performing live in February of 2006 the band’s members still remain friends. Tom has built a pro studio and sells time to various artists that he records, mixes and produces. One such recording is of the children’s music performance group known as Erin Lee & Marci. The CD, titled “Snow Dance”, has been critically acclaimed by several national parenting magazines as well ASCAP. Tom is also continuing to mix and produce a live recording of Joe Rockhead that will be available some time in 2008.
The music of Joe Rockhead has been described as "melodic", “melancholy”, “thoughtful” and as one Boston music critic put it “…the best music that I’ve heard in years…reminds me of ‘Sister Hazel’…the lyrics are clever and thoughtful...his voice is addicting”.
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