The California Honeydrops | |
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| Background information | |
| Origin | Bay Area of San Francisco |
| Genres | Retro Soul, Old jazz, pre-blues, New Orleans funk, and classic R&B |
| Years active | 2008 to Present |
| Labels | Tubtone Records |
| Members |
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| Website | https://cahoneydrops.com/ |
The California Honeydrops, a dynamic band hailing from the Bay Area of San Francisco, are recognized for their eclectic and vibrant blend of old jazz, pre-blues, New Orleans funk, and classic R&B. Their music incorporates an array of instruments and styles, creating a rich, lush sound that is both cohesive and eclectic. The band's energy and style can be felt vividly in their album "A River’s Invitation," which showcases their talent for blending a diverse range of musical genres into a soulful, colorful, and uniquely engaging sound.
History
The band got their start in streets of the Bay Area, the band's origins trace back to the busking efforts of frontman Lech Wierzynski and percussionist Ben Malament, where they often played at BART stations, filling the air with music ranging from Louis Armstrong covers to old-school Delta blues and jugband tunes. Wierzynski, who plays guitar and trumpet, leads the band with a combination of skill and down-to-earth charm, attributes that make their live performances particularly compelling. The lineup further evolved with the integration of Johnny Bones on tenor sax and clarinet, Lorenzo Loera on the keyboards, and Beau Beaullieu handling the bass. This formation not only garnered them a loyal audience but also established their renown, not merely as skilled musicians, but as exceptional performers and entertainers of a high caliber.
Wierzynski's journey into music was influenced by his early life experiences. Though he spent only his initial years in Poland before moving to Chicago, his Polish roots and subsequent time in Chicago played a role in shaping his musical path. He further honed his musical skills and interests while studying at Oberlin, which later led him and fellow Oberlin alumni to establish the band in the Bay Area. The band’s name, inspired by the Tennessee Chocolate Drops, reflects their deep appreciation and revival of historical music styles.
Their approach to music production is as unique as their sound. From their initial self-recorded album sold on the streets to later crowd-funded projects and home-recorded albums, The California Honeydrops emphasize authenticity and a DIY spirit. Their album "Soul Tub," for instance, features a tub bass, underscoring their commitment to diverse and unconventional musical exploration.
The California Honeydrops retain a deep connection to their roots and love for headlining their own shows, where they can fully engage with their audience and music. Their live performances are known for their spontaneity and interaction with the audience, avoiding setlists and welcoming song requests, ensuring a fresh and unique experience at every show.
With their distinct style and dedication to both their musical heritage and innovative approaches, The California Honeydrops continue to captivate audiences, whether in intimate club settings or larger venues alongside renowned artists like Bonnie Raitt .
Discography
- Soul Tub! (Tubtone Records, November 2008)
- Spreadin' Honey (Tubtone Records, July 2010)
- Honeydrops Live (Tubtone Records, April 2012)
- Like You Mean It (Tubtone Records, April 2013)
- A River’s Invitation (Tubtone Records, September 2015)
- A Higher Degree (Tubtone Records, 2015)
- Call It Home VOL 1 & 2 (Tubtone Records, 2018)
- Soft Spot (Tubtone Records, 2022)
References
Get Funky and Fresh with The California Honeydrops and Their New Song
The California Honeydrops Preview New Album ‘Soft Spot’ With “Takin’ My Time” [Listen]