Tripsitter
California Son
© 2006 SideBMusic (783707003603)
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Harmony drenched, retro influenced, melodic power pop. Tracks also available at the major download sites. Links on lower left side of this page.
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ABOUT THE BAND -
Trispitter was formed in 2002 by brothers Jon and Jeff Celentano. They began writing their own music as a way to break out of the lounge lizard and cover band world of their newly adopted home of Las Vegas. Both had spent time on the cocktail/private party circuit and realized there was more to be had from a career in music than just playing for tourists and gambling addicts at 2am on a Wednesday. Thus Tripsitter was born.
The band released their self-titled debut EP in 2003 and ripsitter is without a doubt the wrong music for the tquickly garnered critical praise. Comparisons to the Beach Boys, Beatles, Queen and Ben Folds Five were common among fans and critics. The disc’s signature sound was full-on Beach Boys style harmony wedded to sparkly Brit-Pop guitars and driving piano. The Las Vegas Weekly said of “Tripsitter”, 'If Tripsitter isn't to become a Big Thing, it's only because popular music today is too damn small.' Positive reviews in the Las Vegas City Life, College Web Magazine and other publications followed. Propelled by Jeff and Jon’s powerfully emotive singing and creative vision the group was ready to take to the stage, bringing their five-part harmonies and quirky, well crafted songs to live audiences.
Tripsitter’s debut performance was at the legendary Knitting Factory in Hollywood, Ca. for the International Pop Overthrow Festival. Says I.P.O. founder David Bash: “Tripsitter’s songs and harmonies are among the best you’ll hear.” The group became a fan favorite at the two-week pop music fest and continue to be a part of I.P.O. every summer.
Tripsitter continued to perform around California and Las Vegas, racking up appearances at the Whisky A Go-Go, the House of Blues, the Palms Resort, the Kat Klub and the Coach House where they opened for (and floored) the Little River Band. But it was their set opening for rock legends America that gave Tripsitter an entre’ into rarified company.
At that particular show the band met Billy Hinsche, a former touring and recording member of the Beach Boys. Hinshce had been with the Beach Boys for 20 plus years and immediately grasped the concept and roots of Tripsitter’s sound. He was so taken by the band’s performance and CD that he invited them to perform for the Beach Boys themselves when the state of California declared the Beach Boys childhood home a state landmark. Jon remembers: “I couldn’t breathe when I looked down and saw Brian Wilson in the first row. It was total shock because I was singing the part he originally sang!”
Hinsche was so impressed by Tripsitter that he eventually recruited the band to back up founding Beach Boy Al Jardine. It was an especially huge thrill and honor for Jeff, a life long Beach Boys fan. “It was so great. I was completely blown away by that first show.” In fact, Tripsitter still performs with Al Jardine for special appearances in Las Vegas and across the country.
Tripsitter’s second release, California Son came out in 2005. The new disc presented a more diverse sounding group of songs, from the ethereal “Divine” to the boy-meets-girl, boy-can’t-seal-the-deal lament of “Banana Split” to the title track, an homage to pop genius Brian Wilson. The core of it all, though, remains the stellar vocals and playing of the Celentano brothers and top flight musicianship of Matt Bennett (drums/vocals), Rusty Petersen (guitar/vocals) and Jared Dalley (guitars). California Son continues the string of glowing reviews, this time on a larger scale; California Son made the year-end top ten lists of several publications, including The Big Takeover, Goldmine and the Decatur (Ill.) Herald-Review.
Lately Tripsitter has been dividing their time between live performances and studio sessions. The band recently finished versions of George Harrison’s classic “Wah-Wah” and U2’s “Staring at the Sun”. Both tracks are slated to appear on tribute albums to Harrison and U2, respectively.
Tripsitter is currently at work writing songs for their next CD. The band is focused, as always, on creating impeccably crafted songs that feature their trademark vocal sound and will also include several sonic surprises. “It’s about finding new ways to tell stories and express ourselves”, says Jon. “Whether we do it vocally or with the instruments, it’s always about coming up with new ways to do things.”
Jeff adds, “We’re really into bridging the gap between our heroes like the Beach Boys, Beatles and Pink Floyd and our new favorites like Neil Finn, Ben Folds and others. The next CD is going to be something really special. We’re very excited about a lot of the new material and we can’t wait to unleash it on an unsuspecting public.”
Sonically speaking, Tripsitter is what you'd get if Brian Wilson, Paul McCartney, Freddie Mercury and Ben Folds joined forces in some strange alternate musical universe. Clearly, they look to the past for inspiration all the while keeping a close eye on the present in order to help shape their future.
reviews
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california sun
author: Wolfgang Funkthat´s what you thinking of, when you listen to the CD. Nice album. Tripsitter go on!!!!!!!!!!!
Great harmonies, good compositions, BBs sound
author: JCandalI'll give it four stars because lyrics need improvement and the loud distorted electric guitar doesn't mix well with the excellent piano. A more acoustic guitar, twelve sting guitars sound would go better with their harmonies. Yet is a good cd, after a while with everytime you play it, you like it more.
We love "California Son"!
author: cloud nine and cloud sevenInternet Music Radio, "Gone Fishing for Blue Skies", loves the melodious world of Tripsitter.
Imagine the Beatles crossing over with the Beach Boys.
author: Talon KarrdeThe very first track of California Son by Tripsitter is a perfect outline for what the rest of the album has in store for its listeners. Intro is a harmonic blending of the voices of each member of the band – Jeff Celentano, Jon Celentano, Rusty Petersen, Jared Dalley and Matt Bennett. The harmony and the music take us back to the days of the Beach Boys. With that very first track, which has no lyrics to speak of, the listener envisions pure white sand beaches with a crystal blue ocean lapping at the shore. With each successive track, California Son reveals the major influences behind each of Tripsitter’s band members. Imagine the Beatles crossing over with the Beach Boys. Terrific harmonies, soothing sounds, and well-thought out lyrics lie within each of the tracks, with the exception of Intro, Outro, and Wavestrumental, which are all instrumental. Play these songs for any member of the 60s and 70s generation and they will swear that this group originated at that time. They would be amazed to discover that California Son was produced in 2004. The harmonic voices combined with the music provide an aesthetically soothing sound. The Tripsitter’s music is not in tune with the times and that’s what makes their album so enjoyable. Different from the bands we hear daily on major radio stations, Tripsitter is a band that every generation can enjoy. California Son has something for everyone – love ballads, self-discovery songs, fun tunes, and more. One particularly enjoyable track is Positively Thomas, a funny song that tells a story and leaves the listener with an important fact about life. Thomas has never really shown anyone who he is. His entire life he has been keeping secrets. As the song goes on, Thomas hides more and more secrets – in the closet, under the mattress, and the worst…hidden in the basement! Thus, never revealing himself to anyone, Thomas is doomed to live a lonely life surrounded by his overflowing secrets. The song is bouncy and fun and extremely catchy. By the end of the track, you’re singing along and chuckling at Thomas’ silliness. It’s easy to understand why Tripsitter has a tremendous fan base, which includes actor Dennis Quaid and members of the Beach Boys. Once you hear a few tracks of the album California Son, you’ll be hooked. This CD is a must buy! For more about the band Tripsitter, visit www.tripsitter.net, where you'll find concert dates, photos, sample tracks, and more.
A great CD. Full of brilliant harmonys
author: Steve RimmerA great CD. Full of wonderful harmonys that are a cross between the Beach Boys and the Association.Even though styled on 60's music the songs are as fresh and modern as anything I have heard recently. Highly recommended
unlike any other modern band out there.
author: Laurie BiaginiTripsitter - California Son I must say that ever since this album arrived in the mail, I've been playing it non-stop. It's THAT good. The songs are very well-written, with beautiful melodies that are catchy and addictive. The smooth, flowing vocals with flawless harmonies pull you in with no chance of escape (not that one would want to!). The instrumental backing also is extremely interesting on its own and each of the players gets his own chance to shine. I'm extremely impressed by this band. Perhaps it is because their music takes all the best elements from the greats of the past and combines them into one perfect package and ends up with a product that is unlike any other modern band out there. 1. Intro - Gorgeous, full harmonies slowly bring you into this album with a psychodelic flair 2. Let Me Know You - Bright, optimistic romantic little tune, upbeat and catchy. Guitars and piano are prominent stars in the backing track. Beautiful vocals and harmony. 3. Banana Split - This song lyrically is quite funny and lighthearted. Has a good rockin' tempo with a little funky edge to it, all smoothed together with gorgeous harmonies. 4. Transformation - My favorite track on the album. This song has one of the most beautiful melodies I've ever heard. I fell in love with this song the first time I heard it. Nice contrast between smooth keyboards and guitar distortion. The acoustic guitar also adds a little spanish flair. The mood of this song creates the feeling of drifting on a cloud. Beautiful, absolutely beautiful. 5. California Son - An instant hit. Bright and upbeat, with a smooth, dreamy chorus. Instumentation is excellent. Gorgeous layered vocals with angelic harmonies woven throughout. 6. Wavestumental - Brilliant little instrumental featuring liquid-like vibes, a very sexy saxophone leading the melody. The feeling from this song is that of being on the water, in a tropical locale on a calm day, with not a care in the world. Very pretty. 7. Last September - Stunning waltz with a melody that carries you on a wonderful journey. Tempo change in the bridge creates an interesting interlude, and then returns back to waltz style. I especially love the vocal harmonies in the ending of the song, as it reminds me very much of the stylings of the Beach Boys. 8. There Goes the Sun - A beautiful waltz, very soft, romantic and dreamy. Wonderful showcase of piano and full harmonies with a beautiful guitar bridge. I love the chord progressions in this song. 9. Positively Thomas - A fun song with some interesting tempo transitions. Piano is wonderful in this one. Mood is humorous. 10. Divine - Slow and romantic, this song sounds like it is being transmitted from another realm. The chorus has some 'divine' harmonies. 11. On and On - Funky little number with some killer piano and some cool chord progressions. The melody and tempo of this song create a mood that is very fitting to the lyrics. 12. Outro - Beautiful little vocal fade out showcasing some impeccable harmonies. 13. Just a Little - Sweet ballad with gorgeous piano flourishes. This song just oozes romance. Beautiful lead vocal.
Great slice of modern sunshine pop
author: Martin JensenI would highly recommend this album to every fan of harmonies and great melodies with surprising twists thrown in. The vocals throughout are stellar - these guys really master the technique of harmony singing! As a big fan of the Beach Boys and classic California-flavoured pop I really appreciate the ease with which their harmonies envelop the beautiful nuggets on this album - a particular favourite of mine is 'California Son' and 'Transformation' but in reality almost every track is great. My only minor gripe is that the album could have benefitted from a better and more crisp production. The mixes sometimes sound a bit muddy and fuzzy and could preferably have had a bit more 'oomph' to them. Luckily, this doesn't really overshadow the sheer beauty of the songs. A great album.
Both Tripsitter and California Son are first class all the way!!
author: David Bash- Bucketfull of BrainsFinding a good pop band in Las Vegas is as difficult as spotting the proverbial needle in a haystack, but said needle sparkles in that city’s sun in the form of Tripsitter, a five-piece ensemble who embody the spirit of their coastline brethren with California Son, a disc replete with tantalizing harmonies and melodies. The songwriting team of Jeff and Jon Celentano have their finger firmly on the pulse of a sound that falls neatly between Light Album-era Beach Boys, Seals & Crofts, and Gerry Rafferty. As Brian Wilson always strived for with his albums, every song on California Son becomes a gas! The best of the lot are “Let Me Know You” with its soaring harmonies and thrilling counterpoint melodies, the pretty waltz “Last September,” the gorgeous title track, and a tune that definitely lives up to its title of “Divine”. Both Tripsitter and California Son are first class all the way, and lovers of this kind of sound will have their breath taken away. www.tripsitter.net David Bash
Frikin awesome
author: Max EllertsonThis cd is so sweet. I'm not even in to this kind of music that much, but when i heard this band, it just blew me away. Great cd, and a great band.
Greatness has come to fruition
author: michelle - longtime fan; 7+ yearsMe? I've been a fan since these guys were playing for pennies at restaurants, old indian casinos and whatnot. If you're even thinking about purchasing this record, just put it in your cart and wait for the stellar greatness to arrive at your doorstep. Out of all your cd collections, this is the one that won't gather dust and will stay in your playlist weekly. The album is a culmination of 15 years of sweat, late nights, and perfecting the art of heartache. I've heard everything from them, and this record is the best, so don't just sit there reading reviews, put it in your cart!!
"Simply perfect pop..."
author: Bret Wheadon-beachboys.comIf I had my way, the Beach Boys would have retired in oh, say, 1974, and instead of foisting 15 Big Ones on an unsuspecting public, would have just soaked up some rays, done some surfing, and then once they'd all unwound a little bit, they could've put out an album like California Son, which is the finest, sunniest, most California sounding CD I've heard in a long, long time. Listening to this album brought back powerful memories of the West coast, with all the easy, laid-back effervescence that living in the Sunshine State evokes. Tripsitter have perfectly captured the good vibrations of the California Mythos, and personally have more than a few resemblances to the Beach Boys: a five-piece band, containing two brothers, and some simpatico friends who obviously share a love of harmony singing, they write their own music, play their own instruments, and weave a spell-binding magic in their music. They're not shy of acknowledging their progenitors either: they incorporate an acappella "Intro" and "Outro" which opens and closes the album in "Our Prayer"-like manner, or interpolate parts of "When I Grow Up To Be A Man" into the title track; or the "'Til I Die" vibes found on the instrumental "Wavestrumental" (love the title); or by doing their own vocal sampling of the harmony tag of "Be Here In The Morning" on "Last September." But these artists aren't Beach Boys clones - they're far more relaxed, and their influences also seemingly incorporate The Eagles, The Beatles, and The Carpenters, but not in overt ways - the album just breathes out a sweet, peaceful feeling, and alternately incorporates jazz, blues, or folk influences with remarkable fluidity. Other songs that trip my wires: "Transformation", "On and On", and the post-"Outro" benediction "Just A Little". Simply perfect pop. Check this album out at CDBaby, Tower Records, and be sure to stop by their website and say hi. Meanwhile, I'm going to play this disc over again and hope they have plans to catch a second wave of sweet, California music.
wow!
author: connor pacillowow! this has got to be one of my facorite cds. I dont think there are anywords to describe it. hope there next cds is just as good!
Excellent ! Merveilleux !
author: Charlie DontsurfExcellent ! Merveilleux ! Ce groupe est grand, le disque, une petite merveille. L'esprit des Beach Boys allié à un sens irréprochable de la mélodie pop. Vite, Tripsitter live in Paris (France) !
this cd rocks
author: XantiXclimacticXthis band is really great! their music is just amazing...theres no other way to describe it :P i found them on my myspace search...and boy am i glad i did...
"...a slice of pure pop majesty"
author: AARON ARCHER- Las Vegas City LifeBy its very definition, "pop music" means "that which is currently popular among the listening demographic," particularly teenagers with Mom and Dad's disposable income at the ready. When talking to a true fan of music both past and present, however, the term means something altogether different. It calls to mind the sterling, mini-symphonies of such luminaries as the Beatles, the Beach Boys, R.E.M. and a deluge of other bands who set the template for this genre back in the '60s. California Son, by local quintet Tripsitter, is unabashedly pop in every sense of the word, and makes no apologies for being utterly anachronistic in the modern age of plastic-fantastic sampled pap. It's also simply stunning to find a release by a local act that doesn't come across as gauche and could easily stand up to the quality and scrutiny of a band from any top regional scene. The Las Vegas group's love for the majesty of Brian Wilson and Lennon and McCartney is evident from the first press of the play button. The 13-track disc's "Intro" offers stellar, five-part vocal harmonies that set the stage for the band's core sound. "Let Me Know You" is a slice of pure pop majesty that sounds like a long lost outtake from Rubber Soul or Revolver. Driving piano lines reminiscent of the Fab Four's "Drive My Car" propel a sweetly ascending chorus melody. The bouncy title track adds a pinch of minor-key melancholy, recalling the piano pop of Elton John or Ben Folds. For an independent local release, the quality of the production is surprisingly lustrous, with the densely packed harmonies dominating the mix. Criticism can only be leveled at the fact that the guitars could use a bit of a kick in the ass. The songwriting of vocalist/keyboardist Jeff Celentano and vocalist/bassist Jon Celentano displays all the hallmarks of their heroes without coming off as mere pastiche.
Tripsitter is the ticket
author: Aly Walansky- Culturedose.netTripsitter is actually one of many awesome bands I have accidentally discovered while wandering around MySpace. Their CD, California Son, absolutely blew me away - piano-pop that blends 60s beach pop with a quasi-80s-new-wave sound, complete with catchy vocals, this is exactly the sort of music I've always loved. Chances are it will remind you of bands ranging from Coldplay to the Beach Boys to Ben Folds, but also is similar stylistically to some of my favorite indie bands, such as Spiraling and Shadow Box. Tripsitter is based on the West Coast, and their sound is undeniably surfer pop - beautifully produced and superbly executed. If it's stunning arrangements and beguiling melodies you crave -- Tripsitter is the ticket.
Impeccably crafted California pop
author: Josh Bell- Las Vegas WeeklyBeach Boys-obsessed local popsters Tripsitter return with their second disc, a sunny, light collection of layered pop tunes befitting its title. Brothers Jeff and Jon Celentano write mostly catchy songs in the vein of '60s and '70s California pop, and while their sound is derivative, it's impeccably crafted and worth a listen if you need something to wash down that Smile reissue with.
It's a great album
author: Pete SimpsonThis is a must for any fans of melodic pop music with great harmonies. Brian Wilson is an obvious reference point for this band (a great bunch BTW) and you can't do better than that. Love it!
Album provides the listener with classic creativity with modern day technology
author: Evan MiddlesworthThe first time I heard the album I instantly heard a Jon Brion/Ben Folds/Beach Boy influence but with enough original edge to keep me listening. The harmonies fit nicely with each song, not too overbearing and mixed with modesty. I got the impression these guys have endless talent but aren't flaunting it with flashy recording tricks and pretentious arrangements. A must for any road trip or relaxing around the house! Thanks guys!
Best new band in the country
author: Jeff HayneThis may be one of the best CD's I own. I am a fan of Coldplay, The Beatles, Ben Folds Five, Weezer and various other rockers of this nature. I can't take this CD out of my car's player and don't plan to soon.
Great stuff
author: Charlie SimThis cd is definitely a good one, highly recommended for any music lover and those looking for a semi-retro sound. It is a must have. I haven't gone a day for the past week without listening to it once at work.
Legends in the Making
author: Jaclyn OrtizThis CD is great. Catchy melodies and immpecable musicianship. This band knows their roots and shows their love for music through these heartfelt songs...simply the best.....
This is a great album
author: Richard SnowTripsitter are that rare thing in modern music. A band that can do beautiful vocal harmonies. They don't slack on the backing either. Most the songs are driven by some excellent piano playing, in what I would describe as Ben Folds in style. Then there is the writing, great melodies and these fellas sure know there chords. Listen to Wavestrumental. Great stuff.
A-W-E-S-O-M-E
author: Becky DanielWhile listening to this CD, one gets the feeling of cruising down the street with the top down after a hard day's work knowing full well that life is wonderful and it's great to live in California!
The best band in Vegas - Tripsitter
author: Brian GaryAfter I saw Tripsitter (see review below) I gave this CD a listen. I loved everything I heard on it. The arrangements were fantastic. Admittedly, this is not the same band that I saw on stage. This record is will compliment any part of your day, while their on stage performance will get you ready for a night on the town. Your adrenaline may never come down after the show. Simply just an amazing and very multi-faceted band.------- -------MY SHOW REVIEW I've been a huge Brian Wilson fan all my life, so when I heard there was a local band in Vegas inspired by him, I had to check it out. I came in with some reservations about it. Who knows what hype to believe these days. This time, the hype was TRUE! They were playing at the Palms Hotel on a night called "Wired" showcasing original bands. They opened the show with their guitarist pulling off one of the best Dick Dale intros I have ever heard, then busted into one of their original tunes. Their two singers (who I have found out are brothers) are equally fine with their vocals. The thing is, everyone in this band sings. Their harmonies ARE worthy of Brian Wilson. And with a front man who literally attacks the piano (a kick-ass piano at that) with a vengeance, while never losing anything in his vocals. The lead guitarist is like Stevie Ray Vaughn reincarnated. Their rhythm guitarist had a fabulous voice and was way more than just filler on stage. He rocked out to every song like he was the front man. And I have to say I loved their drummer. It was like taking Ringo Starr and mating him with Stewart Copeland with delightful results. The songs were great from the lyrics to the arrangements, and their overall on-stage presence was fantastic. I'd highly recommend this band to ANYONE!
"pint sized symphonies"
author: Geoff Carter-Las Vegas WeeklyTripsitter's Jeff and Jon Celentano have pitched their tent between 10cc and Gerry Rafferty, with the High Llamas and Grant Lee Phillips, and for their sake I sure hope someone notices. These times aren't particularly friendly to Tripsitter's brand of 1960's and 70's styled pop, the successes of Ben Folds and John Mayer notwithstanding, and while I can imagine talking Steely Dan with these fellows until Jimmy Carter comes home, I can also imagine a crowd of emo brats talking over their entire set. The music tips the odds in their favor. "California Son" is one of the best-produced records I've ever heard come out of a Vegas band. The songs are layered with smooth harmonies and have backgrounds deeper than the Pacific; these are not so much pop songs as pint-sized symphonies, rich with color and emotion. The Celentano's obviously adore Brian Wilson-they cover "Love and Mercy" as an unlisted bonus track-and they do well by him, perhaps too well. None of this matters, however, when you're deep in "California Son". The record quite literally speaks for itself; it is exactly what it seems to be. If Tripsitter isn't to become a Big Thing, it's only because popular music today is too damn small. Geoff Carter- Las Vegas Weekly
awesome
author: joannathis cd is awesome... reminds me of the beach boys with a cool new ecclectic feel to it... great cd.