Backtracking Forward: Wanted On Wax IV

posted in: Features

In my ideal world, everyone would have access to a vinyl press in their own backyard. Cutting discs would be as easy as ripping a CD. Until this happens, I will be digging in the OurStage archives each month to bestow upon the reader an artist whose music I would love to hear on vinyl. This month, the psychedelic sounds of New Jersey’s own Grip Weeds grace the virtual turntable.

This edition of “Wanted on Wax” is a bit different than previous entries in so far as the subject of today’s post has already been pressed on vinyl. Prior writings imply that I would like to hear the artist’s music on an analog platter because they have never done a pressing. With The Grip Weeds however, a band whose history dates back to the early 1990s, the limited 7 inch pressings and German made LPs that enhance their discography are now long out of print. Instead of this post hinting at the desire to have the group jump on the vinyl bandwagon, it becomes a call to those vinyl gods that watch over my digging adventures: Help me excavate some original Grip Weeds LPs on wax!!!

Upon first discovering The Grip Weeds, one must take the time to digest their extensive catalog of sound. Their discography holds four brilliant full length albums that overflow with a deluge of poppy and psychedelic rock and roll diligently crafted throughout fifteen years of music creation. One spin of tracks like Salad Days and Love’s Lost on You erases any notion of the group merely being a 1960’s throwback”despite the distinctly retro feel. Rather, these highly-proficient musicians succeed in crafting a sound that is not only undeniably catchy and original but overflowing with all the right influences to satisfy the palette of today’s eclectic music listener.

A well-equipped environment to record is just as important as writing the songs to be recorded. Instead of putting this matter in the hands of an outsider, The Grip Weeds established House of Vibes Studio to handle all of their musical needs. A virtual tour on the web site reveals an impressive array of vintage equipment coexisting alongside modern technology. The result? Well, the proof lies within the grooves”crisp and harmonious vocals project vibrantly on songs like Every Minute while the more recentAstral Man exemplifies the skilled instrumentation the band has demonstrated since their first full length back in 1994.

A domestic and international fanbase has fueled The Grip Weeds’ popularity but their most impressive advocate has been none other than Little Steven, E-Street Band guitarist and host of the acclaimed radio show, Little Steven’s Underground Garage . Not only is the band’s music played on the syndicated program but Little Steven himself chose the tracklisting for their recent Greatest Hits release.

As if their talent at making incredible music was not enough, The Grip Weeds are stalwart believers and educators of a D.I.Y/open source methodology. Starting a band with intentions of success is no longer as simple as practicing in a garage, playing a few shows and getting noticed by an A&R rep. The technological know-how of contemporary recording software coupled with online marketing and legal matters can be dizzying to navigate. That’s why the band started the Basement To Billboard Lecture Series ” a traveling symposium that seeks to educate aspiring musicians all aspects about recording music . From song creation to final product, The Grip Weeds dissect what is essential and offer their know-how in an entertaining and informative session. Just like in their music, each member of the band contributes a particular strength to the series, encompassing subjects such as law, business, engineering, marketing and the fun part-making music.

The Grip Weeds represent what any dedicated and passionate band can still accomplish, even in today’s cutthroat industry. Putting aside all the accolades, one thing remains clear: Brothers Rick and Kurt Reil, Kristin Pinell and Michael Kelly all channel immense amounts of creative energy to strengthen the longevity of their sound for future generations to enjoy. With an upcoming album that features all new studio tracks slated for 2010, a decision to press a run on vinyl is an obvious next step for this analog-friendly band.

Keep Digging!
-Gregorious-