Within the scope of an evening concert, Whiskey Chimp is bound to take its audience on a genre-bending roller coaster of musical emotions.
Insurgent String Band Whiskey Chimp Releases 2nd Album Titled “Ventura”.
Ventura, California, August, 18 2006
Insurgent: a rebel who revolts against civil authority or an established government.
While making a clear nod to the bluegrass roots of their music, Whiskey Chimp is by no means letting it box them into a statically traditional and predictable format. They embrace string band music, yet treat it with a whimsical irreverence that could make the old guard shake their banjos in protest. Featuring tight four-part harmonies and blazing instrumental prowess, The Chimp, as they are affectionately known by their fans, takes its audience on a genre bending roller coaster of musical emotions. A long time fan had this to say about the new release: “This CD is sprinkled with many influences, performed true to each song’s genre, yet with a distinctive sound. Catchy original tunes sung with soulfully wound harmonies. Definitely a must have.” A fan who recently discovered the band on iTunes writes: “These guys got me started on a whole new world of music and now I can’t stop listening.” Aside from the traditional mariachi ballad “El Rey”, the rest of the tunes on the album are Chimp originals, the title song “Ventura” having been written by a homesick Brent Harding while on the road with Social Distortion. Also included is a revival-tent spiritual about moths flying towards the flame, the grimly amusing “If I’d a Shot You Sooner (I’d Be Out of Jail by Now)”, the gypsy-campfire sound of “Dirty Water” and eight more songs written and sung by each of the band members in turn. In order to capture the essence of their raucous concerts, the album “Ventura” was recorded live in the studio. Their live show is so outstanding that the Chimp was invited to play at the hallowed grounds of the famous McCabes Guitar shop in Santa Monica not once, but twice, to a rowdy and appreciative full house both times.
With a “makes strange bedfellows” blend of musical history behind them (punk, heavy metal, country, mariachi, rockabilly, cajun and even a jugband) this group of friends has found a common ground in string band music. Whiskey Chimp features Chris Cairn’s (Chris Cairns Band, Porch Dogs) traditional bluegrass banjo, Toby Emery’s (Jackass, Raging Arb) punk vocals and mandolin, Bill Flores’ (The Tatters, Porch Dogs) seemingly bottomless talent on accordian/clarinet/dobro/fiddle, Stanley Gonzales (Sykotik Sinfoney) vocals and rock-n-roll ukulele, Brent Harding’s (Deke Dickerson, Social Distortion) vocals and slapping upright bass, Mark Parson’s (Flambeau, Fernest Arceneaux) cajun-styled vocals and fiddle, Cory Scrivner’s (The Barrel Dodgers) roots and folk based vocals/guitar.
Whiskey Chimp press release 10/06
The fans say it best:
"Whiskey Chimp, which defies a simple description, but which needs to be heard by everyone reading this review at some point in the future."
- Rick Cornish, Former California Bluegrass Association CEO
“Starting from very traditional bluegrass, they may venture deep into punk rock roots or tangent off into a rousing mariachi ballad. Whiskey Chimp’s repertoire of refreshing original material and choice cover songs delightfully violate all rules of engagement. Their simian stage antics and electrifying performance keep audiences entertained throughout the night. From their first song to their encore, it is very apparent that these boys are having a blast.”
“A rare blend of heart, soul, wit and talent…”
“Whiskey Chimp’s music is based in rich harmonies, insightful and oft cleverly comical lyrics and crisp instrumentations performed with both masterful skill and schoolboy glee.”
“…punk rock, rockabilly, country, bluegrass, norteno, Cajun and Aerosmith covers. With this eclectic blend of talent and personality, Whiskey Chimp is storming the roots music scene!"
“Whiskey Chimp plays music the way life should be led; with passionate zeal.”
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