The Bangs

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The BANGS originally formed close to 20 years ago with Gary Roupenian (lead vocal) , Armand Siciliano(guitar),Frank Sofio(bass),John Mansman(drums),and Bob Schaffer(guitar)& were later joined by James Heath (sax).Selling out local clubs at first ,The BANGS quickly expanded their performances to northern New Jersey clubs .Eventually The BANGS made their way into south Jersey by way of the Fast Lane, Asbury Park and quickly became a staple of the the south Jersey music scene. In a recent interview in the Asbury park Press ,Jon Bonjovi was asked who impressed him most in those early days in Asbury . His answer was”Lance Larson,The BANGS,The Shakes,it was the little guys.”After releasing their first EP The Bangs received air play on WNEW radio, expanding their popularity and their performance schedule. This forced a west coast band now known as the Bangels to change their name , for they had been known as the Bangs before they got signed. Contrary to popular belief ,The BANGS (east coast) were offered only $500.00 for the rights to the name. As opposed to the story that they threatened take legal actions and sue.With the release of their second EP “More Support” and the interest of a major management ,The BANGS were opening for National acts in concerts halls and colleges thru out the state of new Jersey , New York , Conn. ,and Pennsylvania, such as , Chuck Berry , The Pretenders ,Pat Benatar , the Stray Cats , Iggy Pop , David Johansen , Gary U.S. Bonds , the Fools , the Jags , Garland Jeffries , Robert Gordon , the Fabulous Thunderbirds , to name a few.As the negotiations for a recording contract contiued to drag on(“send,lawyers,guns,and money”) The BANGS performances had expanded into New England creating a strong base in Boston. Due to the arduous conditions that life on the road presented and personal problems, changes were made to accommodate the circumstances. With new members in tow The BANGS released their third EP “SIDETRACK’SD” displaying on the cover a portion of the recording contract that went sour.The BANGS continued to perform ,but as time went by it became increasingly harder to hold it all together. With the tradgic loss of members , burnout ,& road weary the group slowly dissolved. To all of you who enjoyed our music and shows, I thankyou for all the great times we had together and the wonderful memories . God BlessGary*************************************************** ***** MyGen