Zac from Sex Piano
All right kids, it’s Lesson #2 on the Philly music scene! Today we’ll be talking about something completely different from the sort of music/musicians I’ve presented. They are quite the acquired taste, and as such you must make a life-altering decision: you can skip this post completely and remain ignorant and sheltered, or you can allow yourself to fall (deeply and inescapably) into what can only be described as high energy, irreverent, and hilarious college rock music.
I am sure you have never, ever, ever heard of them, as many in Philly have not, but allow me to introduce you to Sex Piano. Sex Piano, reader; reader, Sex Piano. Now why don’t you two shake hands? How nice, let’s all sit down for a hot cup of tea. Sex Piano are four 20-something year old dudes from Philadelphia who have independently released their first album, “Huge.” You may think the title is a bit presumptuous, but it’s all part of the band’s persona: they pretend they are famous rock stars living the archetypal lifestyle of groupies, sex, drugs, and hard-edged attitude. This couldn’t be further from the truth, which is part of Sex Piano’s appeal. They are jovial and joyful, and have quite the following at their alma mater, Haverford College.
Their songs range from a pilot being launched into space, an ode to a heartbreaking ho, the love story of two homeless orphans, and a cryptic tune about love and drugs. Their sound is still shaky: the band has not yet pinpointed their genre or even thematic styles, which has resulted in lazy lyrics, disjointed songs, and unbalanced vocals (there’s either far too much screaming or not enough of it, depending on the track). The bottom line is, they’re trying too hard to sound like already famous comic bands, but they are unequivocally sincere and creative.
The group’s lead guitarist, Nick, is superb and soulful on his instrument - the man has the ear and fingers made for greatness, but his singing is unpleasantly sharp at times. Peter, the drummer, is talented and energetic, with a wonderful knack for accompaniment. Lead vocalist Zack (who, by the way, is also attractive but chunky) is earnest and has quite the physical presence, but is all over the place on the stage. With some training and control, his voice could be quite pleasurable and a much needed bonus to the band. But, let’s get to the goodness you’ve been waiting for: beautiful bassist Zac (no “k”) is worth the trek to the ghetto-ish joints in which Sex Piano plays. Tall, strapping, and with a gentle smile, Zac is the epitome of good-boy cutie. He’s a skilled and understated bassist whose ability should be explored and better featured within the band. Let his treble make you tremble.
Well, enough as way of introduction; reader, Sex Piano, I hope you two exchange phone numbers and agree to see each other again, because you’ll both benefit from this relationship, kids. Who knows, it might be a one-night stand or it might be long-lasting love. The band plays mostly locally in Philadelphia, so check their website for dates (and tell them how much you love their name and whether you can try that piano thing out sometime).
Follow the fineness
