LOCAL BAND b SERIES TO RELEASE NEW CD

Often art, in all of its forms and expressions, is the translation of pain. Pain—physical, spiritual, emotional—has been the impetus of countless masterpieces. The music of local band b Series is a prime example of that cathartic outpouring.

Love lost, gained, unrequited, financial setbacks and basic life BS have all made for some great songwriting material. The band connects to the listener on a very human, emotional level.  That element, along with the seasoned musician’s expert handling of their respective instruments with a raw, simplistic grace and unique style, combine to produce a great show!

Friday, September 4^th, the band performs at 6 p.m. at the Convention Center Plaza as part of the Alfresco Fridays music series. Following is a celebration of their latest effort, a 5 song EP titled Rough Roots. The CD release party is scheduled for 9 p.m. at Sparrow’s Spirits & Pies.

b Series is made up of former Fixed Idea members as well as some ex-band geeks.

Jaime Candelaria and Maribel Bueno were both in the local ska/punk behemoth Fixed Idea during the band’s glory days. All totaled, the pair put in over 10 years with the band. Candelaria is b Series’ bassist and vocalist, and Bueno plays tenor sax and sings.

Former high school drum god David Nava is b Series’ drummer, and also provides backup and lead vocals. Chris “Erick” Morales serves as resident percussionist, with a mastery of congas and timbales.

To round things out, Bueno’s little sister Vero plays alto sax, flute, sings backup and occasionally lead vocals. 

Different backgrounds, musical tastes, and affinities all provide an interesting framework from which the band writes and plays. Their catalog varies widely—in one set they create an energetic interplay of ska, reggae, cumbia, rock, punk and more. The appeal is widespread, drawing members from all walks of life.  An awesome combination of talents and aspirations is at the core of the group as they strive to expand beyond, and even defy, conventional categorical boundaries and the limitations therein.

Details:

Alfresco Fridays September 4^th, 2015, 6 p.m. @ the Convention Center Plaza

Sparrow’s Spirits & Pies, 201 S. El Paso St., 9 p.m. CD Release Party

Text & Photos: Denise Nelson-Prieto