by Deanna Reyes
Staff Writer
“Fat Side of Skinny,” “Sleeper” and “Coffee Boy.” No, these are not titles to this summer’s new film releases. These are just a few of the 22 original songs written and performed by the up-and-coming band “The Big Pill.”
The Press, located in Claremont, set the stage for the band’s performance last Friday. The five-member band include Rich Herrera, percussion; Joey K., drums and lead vocals; Nick Lewis, guitar; Josh Steinberg, bass and Jake Wilson, saxophone. DJ True accompanied the band, adding some spice to its sound by scratching records.
The group formed when Lewis ran into Joey K. who was playing a guitar outside a local record store. Joey K. said Lewis called him everyday for three weeks until he finally agreed to get some people together and start a band.
Joey K. called his two childhood friends, Steinberg and Herrera, and recruited them to the band. Wilson, a recent member of four months, attends school with Lewis, who brought him to one of the band’s practices. And as they say, “the rest is history.”
The original name of the band was suggested by Joey K., who had always had the name ‘The Big Pill” in the back of his mind if he ever started a band.
“The name came from another band who didn’t like it, and I did,” said Joey K. “It came from the first line of a George Clinton song called ‘Dr. Funkenstein.'”
Joey K. said he writes about 80 percent of the band’s songs, and uses his personal experiences for inspiration. A song entitled “Coffee Boy” is about his time working at an espresso bar located inside a gas station.
Fellow band member, Wilson said he thinks Joey K.’s songs are very unique and original.
The Big Pill has a unique sound, mixing various genres of music to create something all its own. Joey K. describes their music as “aggressive lounge music.”
“We have a heavy jazz, rock and R&B sound,” said Wilson.
Incorporating many instruments, the band’s sound is strong due to the experience of each member.
“What makes our band unique is that everyone can really play,” said Joey K. “Nick has been playing guitar for 15 years and I’ve been playing drums for 20 years.”
Its performance at the Press offered a smaller and more intimate setting than the band is accustomed. Tables adorned with candles surrounded the area in which the band was playing. While enjoying the enthusiastic music, band-goers enjoyed various appetizers from the restaurant’s late night menu.
The performance began at 9:30 p.m. and lasted until midnight. The band had the crowd of various ages tapping their feet and grooving to the upbeat sounds throughout the evening.
“I like the band’s sound and beat with the scratching of the records,” said Jose Galindo, a 20-year-old student from Chaffey College. “They are real high energy.”
The band is currently working laboriously on its second CD, expected it to be completed in July or August of this year. Their first album is titled “The Big Pill: Prescription Strength,” is available at their concerts. Their ultimate goal is to go nationwide with their music.
All of the members of the band have a passion and dedication for music, which attributes to much of their success.
“I tremendously enjoy performing,” said Wilson. “I just can’t get enough.”
The ages of the band members range from 19 to 25, and the level of their music is incredibly high and their undeniable talent is prevalent with every song they play.
“The Big Pill” will be playing next at McMurphy’s in Old Town Pasadena on May 18 and June 1.
