Loyola is a constant haven for music all around its historic campus. Take a peek at these rising stars within its own galaxy.
Jazz and funk are as native to New Orleans as red beans and rice on a Monday. The Revivalists, an up-and-coming New Orleans band, however, have distinguished themselves in the musical scene by adding a touch of rock and blues to the traditional soulful jazz genre.
Andrew Campanelli, music business senior, and a newly welcomed member, George Gekas, general business studies junior, along with four other similarly native northern band members, Mike Brun, Zack Feinberg, Nick Offenberg and Dave Shaw, were all brought together by one thing- the love of music. Merged musical influences and differing geographic backgrounds, along with intense band chemistry are what Campanelli and Gekas contribute most to the success of the band.
Two weeks after forming in October of 2007, the then unnamed band received its first real break shortly after its debut performance at Tipitina’s on Napoleon Avenue. Networking and booking shows were relatively smooth sailing after that.
When asked about their much-anticipated upcoming extended play release party, Campanelli and Gekas displayed their band chemistry and obvious inside joke by simultaneously referring to it as their “debutante ball.” The Revivalists will release their self-titled EP at The Howlin’ Wolf Sept. 19 at 9:30 pm. Cover is $10.
As for the future of the band Campanelli said, “Getting signed is not the goal. We want to be able to take it on tour to get some regional success and a solid full record.”
Rita West can be reached at [email protected].
From left, Nick Offenberg, Mike Brun, Dave Shaw, Andrew Campanelli, George Gekas and Zack Feinberg Take a break from practice Monday evening.
