Progressive Rock > Shadow Circus
After 15 years of actively playing in several bands on the NYC music scene, guitarist John Fontana set out to compose music that hearkened back to the golden age of Progressive Rock. His original intention was to compose pieces for his own enjoyment, and to demo his guitar playing while auditioning for bands. But when the music caught the ear of his former band mate, drummer Corey Folta, Corey insisted that the music be fully developed with a band.
Vocalist David Bobick, trained with a degree in Musical Theater, and a variety of rock band credits under his belt, began writing lyrics and vocal melodies. The combination of theatrical training and raw rock-and-roll influence fit perfectly in the context of the music, adding a pop sensibility with his instantly catchy melodies, and a dramatic element while portraying an array of personalities in the songs – from an insidious Circus M.C. in the title track, to a wise old sage in a three-part-epic inspired by the novel The Talisman.
While rehearsing to record their first CD, the band was discovered by bassist Matt Masek, a classically-trained-cellist-turned bass guitarist, who instantly meshed with Corey into a powerhouse rhythm section.
The addition of Matt raised the bar, and John could no longer handle the task of guitars as well as keyboards in live situations, so they set out to find a dedicated keyboard player. Rising to the challenge was keyboardist Zach Tenorio, at 17 years old already having played onstage at Moogfest with Keith Emerson and Rick Wakeman, and touring credits with prog rock legends John Wetton, Tony Levin, and Mike Keneally, among others. Zach’s showmanship and undeniable skill completes the lineup of this exciting and inspired new progressive rock ensemble.