Bad Animals profile picture

Bad Animals

THE MOST GENUINE TRIBUTE TO HEART

About Me



Bad Animals is a New York based tribute to ... guess who??? Heart, of course! :) Bad Animals was a specially formed project with some outstanding musicians from Long Island, New York. The idea was to brush off some dust and have some fun. We were all friends that wanted to do something, but didn't know what. It finally happened in 2002 and at that time tribute bands were on the rise and getting very popular. We thought at first it was a crazy idea that you would cover only one band's music. But when you take a look at Deana and Gina (funny how their names even rhyme) there was no question as to what band they would pay tribute to. For Deana it was very special moment since she grew up listening to Ann Wilson. "It is the biggest honor to sing your mentor's songs and hope people love it." Gina used to say at some of our first rehearsals, "I am Nancy!" ... and made sure she had Nancy's kick as well. "We want this tribute to be as authentic as possible". We assure you that Bad Animals looks (well, not exact look alikes but the hair is good ;}) and sounds (as close as humanly possible) like the Wilson sisters. You will be amazed. Check out our website at www.badanimalsband.com. If you don't find your favorite Heart song on our set list let us know.
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On a side note, Deana and Gina are in rehearsal with a new band for their songs. John Laspina (who plays with Bad Animals) has agreed to do the project. We are so excited to have him. They are still working on a name for the project, and will be playing out soon.

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KEEP YOUR LOVE ALIVE ;)p

My Interests

Music:

Member Since: 5/23/2007
Band Website: badanimalsband.com
Band Members:

Deana Cook - Lead Vocals

Deana hails from Long Island, New York and tops off this project as the perfect Ann Wilson. She has fronted several hard rock projects, and has performed in a variety of different cover bands that have a wide range of music. Her powerful vocals has claimed her as one of the hardest rockin chicks around.

Gina Stile - Guitar and Vocals

Gina, an amazing guitar player from New York steps up to be the Nancy Wilson for this tribute to Heart. She has played with the Poison Dollies, Envy and most recently with Vixen. Her vast experience has lead her to be one of the best female guitarists that you will ever see. Gina gives Bad Animals a heavier spin that will rock you into the ground!

Mark "The Animal" Mendoza - Bass

We truly feel sorry for any bass guitar that makes it into the hands of the Animal. He is the inspiration for the name of this tribute. Mark is an extraordinary bassist who has played with the Dictators, but most infamous for his pounding action with Twisted Sister. While he's not touring with TS the Animal gives Bad Animals his pounding action.

Cecile Kabaraci - Keyboards and Vocals

Cecile has been performing with Long Island rock bands for years. She is a professional piano teacher as well as a composer and lyricist. She has contibuted her talent to many charity events, most notably, recording and performing with T.A.P (The Tom Allen Project) at many festivals. As a season professional, Cecile gives Bad Animals that "final touch of polish" by playing the signature keyboard lines that make Bad Animals authentic and genuine.

John Laspina - Drums

John's drum quest began at the age of 9, when his aunt who worked for Columbia records gave him a bunch of albums from artists such as Aerosmith, Pink Floyd, Billy Joel, Boston and others as a Christmas gift. John has studied with several Jazz players and done studio and live work for many local acts through the years including Joker's Child, Reckless Fortune, Tony D'Mattia, SonicBlonde, and Rubix Kube. In addition to drums John also plays guitar.

John Macaluso - Backup Drums

John is an exceptional drummer from New York that has played with Yngwie Malmsteen, TNT, and more amazing rock acts than we can list. He is mesmerizing to watch, and gives Bad Animals their heaviest sound. John teaches, tours and has released his solo CD called Union Radio in 2007.
Influences: All material is a faithful reproduction of the band HEART. All material is exclusively owned by HEART.
Sounds Like: Ahh....hmm....HEART?!
Record Label: unsigned
Type of Label: None