This article should have appeared in the September issue of Artist Launch Web Magazine. But since there wasn't a September issue I have been given permission to post this piece that I wrote as I see fit.
This band is an excellent example of what hard work and determination can do for serious musicians. They deserve much more recognition and attention than I can give them with simple blog posts. If you would like to re-post this blog you may, as long as it remains in it's original form and includes my by-line. No additions or deletions may be rendered to the any of the contents of this text.
Peggy Murphy
Airiel Down
Going Fast and Taking Chances
by Peggy Murphy
Airiel Down is known throughout the business as one of the hardest working bands in the United States. Based in Raleigh, NC, they tour nationally, playing over 200 shows in 21 states in the past year and a half, from east coast to west coast. They have radio airplay in North and South America, Europe, Australia and Asia.
They pride themselves on their work ethic and relentlessness. Packing as much high energy into their live shows as possible making their fans want to come back for more. Their introductory statement on Myspace says, "Go Fast an' Take Chances". That keen advice has obviously worked for them.
This band has been in the works, setting up their infrastructure for five years, and have been playing music full time for three years. Their expectations are so high that they have barely scratched the surface. Such drive and devotion should take them to the top.
Beaux Foy handles lead vocals and rhythm guitar. Michael Ave also plays rhythm guitar, violin, and keys, while Taylor Traversari keeps the tempo on drums and percussion. Miche Barbachan, the lead guitar player also plays didgeridoo and keys. Cade Edmundson helps keep the beat on bass while singing background vocals, playing mandolin and covering the harmonica parts.
All the band's booking is done by drummer Traversari, who has some background in this field. They have brought in a manager from Southern California to help them with national touring, but plan to keep most of the management within the band.
Beaux started writing songs from the age of 13, and gets his inspiration from life experiences. Both his parents were involved with music, giving him a rich background with all types of music, and when asked about his biggest influence, his reply was "Life".
Cade initially played guitar and had been in and out of bands since he was a teenager. He auditioned for Airiel Down playing bass three years ago and was immediately welcomed as a member. One of his most influential bands is Three Days Grace. His influences are very well rounded, covering several genres, and is described by others in the group as an 'Encyclopedia of Rock'.
Miche (pronounced Meesh) is from Lima, Peru and has been playing guitar for most of his life. He is very passionate about his music and it shows. He brings an international flavor to the band and joined the group three years ago.
Mike Ave joined the group two years ago, replacing Gordon Harris who is at this moment in Southern California getting his Master's Degree at USC. Mike is Hawaiian from the island of Oahu, yet he grew up in North Carolina. Very intensely laid back, he lives through his music. His guitar is his girlfriend and her name is Jenny.
All the Airiel Down guitar players play Gibsons and have met Les Paul in person at a gig.
As stated on their Myspace page, "Airiel Down's band members are influenced by a wide range of music." Their diverse influences are reflected in their music, and as a result, no two Airiel Down songs sound alike.
In the past Airiel Down has opened on the main stage or second stage for Army of Anyone, Counting Crows, Goo Goo Dolls, Gin Blossoms, Saliva, Shinedown, .38 Special, Helmet, Jani Lane of Warrant and Badfish.
On Sept 6th the band opened for Soul Asylum and Foreigner at the Raleigh Wide Open, the biggest outdoor party in the history of Raleigh, NC with somewhere in the neighborhood of 150,000 people in attendance.
The group is currently working hard in the studio recording their new album which should be released sometime this summer. They will be celebrating with a CD release party. Details about this party are not available at this time. Please contact Airieldown to find out more.
MySpace URL: http://www.myspace.com/airieldown
Or just click on the photo below to go to their myspace page...
