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Macon, GA. The Hy-Brid Fan wave,
cross-generational and steadily gaining strength, now encompasses a large
section of the southeastern US from Panama City to Myrtle Beach and
everywhere in between.
Frontman Jeffery Sutton exudes natural onstage
presence and musicianship, and displays obvious chemistry with talented
bandmates Shaun Deal (guitar) and Larry Richardson (bass) as they delight
audiences by cranking out back-to-back, hook-ful and radio-ready melodic
rock songs.
But the successful beat driving this bands'
growth over the past 2 years can be traced to the heart of Michael Carmel,
not only the bands 'in-the-pocket' hard hitting drummer with solid meter
musically, but a natural leader. Carmels' military background blends nicely
with his studio engineering experience, making it fairly easy for one to
point to him as the catalyst that has put Hybrid-L on the A&R southeastern
regional "hot" list.
Mike, sporting his new clean-shaven head, took a short break from
single-handedly running the sound for other bands sharing the bill at a
recent Macon (hometown) Rivalry's show (filled to capacity and sold out of
Jager, as usual ) to tell me the Hybrid story.
In late 2002, Mike was hired to record a previous hybrid version of Hybrid-L
at his very own Pro/Am Studio. After working with the band and seeing
obvious potential in the material and the members, Mike found himself drawn
into considering whether he would ever perform regularly again. "I said to
myself - if I was going to dust off my sticks and get involved again in a
band - this would be the band I'd want to be part of". Low and behold,
several months after finishing their demo recording, he was contacted by the
band, who found themselves suddenly minus a drummer.
In May 2003, Carmel agreed to join Hybrid-L and proceeded to bring his
playing skills and experience, hard work ethic and aspirations into the mix.
It has been "Band Boot Camp" ever since, and this captain has his units'
solid support, according to guitarist Harley Shaun Deal "We have the utmost
respect and love for Mike and what he has helped us accomplish since coming
on board".
The bands' live performance schedule doubled then quadrupled. 1,000 copies
of their debut full-length album "Face Me Not" (recorded at Cock of the Walk
Studios with Don Tart) were sold exclusively by the band along with merch at
shows. Relationships with club owners, managers, other bands, and radio DJ's
across Georgia, northern Florida and South Carolina tightened and prospered.
Most recently, the band learned that their single "Bury Me" is the most
requested song on at least two FM radio shows - Macons' Q106 FM (ala Greta,
a major supporter of the band since the beginning), and at Tally's Gulf 104
(Chili Pepper) weekly Homegrown shows.
Booking Shows?
"It's about looking at the bigger picture - not worrying just about
yourself, but striving to play entertaining shows with high quality,
complimentary bands, as well as maintain a cooperative atmosphere. Being
partnered with good venues to ensure that every stakeholder meets their
goal".
Apparently, Mike's philosophy has worked well, as many club owners, such as
Vicki at Soho's in Columbus, GA, trust Mike and request that he handle the
entire line up for their shows, as he has proven to always bring a great
lineup, crowd and profitable night of music into her venue. Recently, the
band worked with other popular locals, Echovalve and Lazyeye to sell out the
Hard Rocks' Velvet Underground.
Sponsors?
"Show a serious commitment to your supporters", Mike advises, "there are so
many other good bands out there for sponsors to choose from, it's crucial to
always follow through with your end of the arrangement." Since picking up
the sponsorship from Jagermeister in 2004, sales of the "Jager Bomb" have
leapt significantly in Georgia (possibly just from the consumption of band,
crew and family alone!). Jager Music recently selected Hybrid - L to open
the final Spring 2005 Alter Bridge tour date in Pensacola, FL on May 6th.
Shortly after receiving their first shipment of clothing from Level 27, a
professional photo shoot of the band wearing the clothing was completed and
photos sent promptly to the company without any reminders necessary
(www.level27online.com).
Other 'advice' ?
"Always expect Mr. Murphy to show up, be prepared for it, and if he doesn't
show his ugly face, well, be glad and enjoy, because he WILL turn up again -
count on it".
Strategizing to attract major label attention, the band is currently
negotiating with professional level management (Scarlett Lopez - Front Page
Associates) to enhance the team. They recently returned to Cock of the Walk
(Jackyl) Studios to record their second album set for an April 2005
release. Also in 2005, expect a DVD, more showcases, expansion of touring
territory, and more airplay!
With an exceptionally solid chassis (family and road crew support), the best
new features (commercial appeal), flat 12 cylinder engine (performance with
momentum), and a full tank (of Jager) fuel, this Hybrid is moving to the
fast lane!
Catch Hybrid L in Atlanta at Hard Rock on June 3 with
Echovalve and
Uncrowned.
www.HYBRID-L.com
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