Johnny 5

Johnny 5’s origins can be traced back to October of 2005, as the result of a bout of rare, beer-induced brain activity from guitarist Chris Hall. Having known the amazingly-versatile drummer (and fellow Tool fanatic) Matt "Spiral Out" Cooney from a previous original band, Chris proposed to him the idea of recruiting the best local musicians available to form the greater Philadelphia area’s ultimate cover band, with the goal of effectively combining crowd favorites with songs that aren’t typically heard in your, so to speak, run-of-the-mill cover project. Luckily, Matt agreed, since Chris was well aware that any drummer who can routinely pull off Danny Carey (Tool) and Jimmy Chamberlin (Smashing Pumpkins) drum patterns WHILE doing his taxes would be MORE than adequate for the cover project he had in mind. From there, the duo began drafting up the blueprints, convening periodically to form a list of songs from which to build a foundation, then began the long and arduous task of finding the talent needed to reproduce these songs in what they felt was the most accurate way possible. The next couple of months were spent auditioning singers and bassists, revising song lists, drinking beer, all while slaving away at their day jobs and planning in their off-hours the most efficient and productive ways of achieving their goals. By early 2006, after scouring numerous musician-related websites, Chris and Matt had put together the first incarnation of the band, with Chris handling all guitar duties, along with a lead vocalist, bassist and Matt bashing away at the skins. Over the next year, the list of songs was expanded and plans were in the works to unveil this kick-ass new band to the public and as of spring 2007, second guitarist Jason Gaghan was added to the mix. Jason, aside from his dead-on Krusty the Clown laugh imitation, possesses a keen ear, a wonderful work ethic, as well as an uncanny ability to play the SHIT out of his guitar, whether it be laying down a rock-solid rhythm or a searing solo. However, after many months of preparation, spring of 2007 saw the departure of the original lead vocalist and bassist, within a very short time of each other. However, new musicians were found quite quickly, and 2007-2008 saw the band in top form, with 2008 featuring J5 gigging regularly throughout the year, mostly in Delaware County. October of 2008 saw current bass player Ted Szczypiorski was added to the mix, and plans for a new lead singer aren't too far around the corner. Ted brings a veritable internal jukebox of songs to the table, years of experience in many different bands, and a thunderous low-end which brings Johnny 5 the other half of the rhythm section required to pull off the magic they are able to re-produce on stage. The Amazing Johnny 5 anticipates seeing you, current fans, and meeting future fans alike at our upcoming gigs while enjoying many good times, drinks and fun. We look forward to seeing you and thank you for your support!! MyGen Profile Generator