VINYL SOUP

Drawing upon a variety of genres, VINYL SOUP blends influences from Folk, Blues, Jazz, Funk, and Progressive Rock, as well as Caribbean music ranging from Mento to Reggae, combined into a robust sonic melange that refuses to be pigeon-holed. Their songs feature an enlivening sense of humor girded by a surprising emotional urgency that belies the playful nature of their lyrics. Fans of VINYL SOUP'S live performances cite the band's fearless improvisation and free-wheeling musicianship as unique strengths of their live shows.
Founding member and lead guitarist Andrew Hooker grew up in West Point, Mississippi, hometown of blues legend Howlin' Wolf. After earning a music degree in California, Hooker returned to the tradition-steeped musical environs of Nashville, Tennessee where he formed VINYL SOUP.
In December of 2003, VINYL SOUP released their debut album, entitled Chasing Yesterday. That release topped the Jazz Charts at internet music channel m3radio.com. The album also reached 19 on the Top 30 Charts, joining artists such as reggae legends Toots and the Maytals.
In January of 2008, the band released its second album Brandon and Travis. With its meandering compositions and afro-cuban influenced rhythms, the second release shows a more mature side of the band and a willingness to explore and stretch.
After experimenting with lineup changes during the early years of the band's existence, VINYL SOUP has emerged as a quartet, featuring Wes Lloyd on bass, Aaron Faust on drums, and Justin Smith on piano and organ, with founding member Hooker on guitar. Invigorated by the potent chemistry of their new lineup, VINYL SOUP is poised to expand their growing fan base, winning new converts with their whimsical stylistic brew.
Fans can expect a third album in the fall of '09, the first release to feature the most current lineup of the band, as well as extensive touring to both promote Brandon and Travis and road test new material.