Bonfire Night began in the Autumn of 2005 as an expansion of singer/multi-instrumentalist Chuck Owston's dark explorations in traditional and original music. The first lineup was a combination of acoustic and electric instruments, giving various sonic textures to the music. Chuck's original vision was an American band capable of doing their own interpretations of the music of the classic folk rockers of the late 60's -- Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span, Tyrannosaurus Rex, and the Pentangle.However, as time passed, openings for a total electric incarnation of the band became available. The most notable was an opening spot for gothic band Bella Morte in May 2006. Drawing on Chuck's original music based on dark medieval themes -- the Black Death, conquest and war, myth and legendry, the band soon passed into a nearly totally original band, doing only one traditional song, the 500 year old murder ballad, "Matty Groves." The sound also was much heavier than originally anticipated, driven by Jason D. Russell's drumming. Eletcric guitars, cittern, electronic keyboards and electric violin added a texture. For awhile it seemed there was a rotating lineup of personnel, with members coming and going.Lately the band has drawn on Nordic folklore as a source for material, harkening back to the Dark Ages, with songs of Vikings, Saxons and other barbarian peoples.The current (May 2008) members are:Chuck Owston -- vocals, electric guitar, electric cittern, octave mandolinJohn Kerr -- electric bassJason D. Russell -- drumsDean Krimm -- lead guitarJim Orr -- harmony vocals, percussion
