the goners (November 2006) CONTROLLING THE WORLD live
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HISTORY
The Goners were formed in the Summer of 2004 when Guitarist/Vocalist Josh Fleming proposed the idea of starting a band with Drummer Keith Dison and Trumpet Player Ben Nelson. It was an obvious choice to bring Bass Guitarist Dan Nelson into the mix, and to compliment the horn section Trombone Player Sam Kruger was invited to join.
After playing their first show in August, Trombone Player Josh Guthrie quickly became interested in accompanying the 5-piece who's sound was quickly catching the attention of local music listeners. The combined writing skills made way for a 10-track release called "The Empire Skanks Back," which inspired the group to take their music even further.
Friends and fans Micah Berman, Trumpet Player, and Stephen Wolking, Tenor Saxophone Player, were added to the mix prior to the release of The Goners' second 10-track release called "Two-Tone & Tongue-Tied," which caught the attention of many non-local listeners and allowed The Goners to begin stretching their influence outside of the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The now 7-piece started spending the majority of their weekends practicing their set and playing shows all over Texas.
Less than a year since their first show the group began working vigorously on a third 10-track release. With some helpful advice from John Nicholson of Hollywood Records, The Goners recorded and released "Lipstick Memories," which was emotionally and financially draining for the group. After a series of shows the band took a small break to allow members to catch up with their everday lives, where Micah Berman realized that school would put him on an impermanent hiatus.
During this break Alto Sax Player Greg Smith was introduced to the group. His addition brought new musical opportunities and revived the musical fervor of the previous seven.
After a few shows the group made plans to record and release a proessionally recorded and mastered E.P. under the guidance of John Nicholson again. After numerous trips up to Tulsa Oklahoma, where Nixons' Lead Singer/Guitarist Zac Maloy produced and tracked The Goners, the band planned the release of their self-titled E.P. in which The Goners prove that ska is far from dead.
A few changes were made in the spring of 2006, when Josh Fleming and Keith Dison left to persue different artistic interest. The rest of The Goners wish them the best of luck in all of their ordeals. Filling in on Guitar is former sax player Stephen Wolking, and taking over on everything percussion is old friend Ryan Stansky.
Late May of 2007, with the help of a few friends, The Goners finished their first release since the change in lineup. The 12-track cd includes popular old songs as well as some new songs that showcases the positive direction the band feels it is going. During this time Greg Smith found his time stretched thin, and rightfully chose to dedicate his time to more important life decisions. "Control" was released late June of 2007. Featured on the CD are old friend Micah Berman on trumpet and new friend An Mai on piano. Shortly after the CD release, Ryan Stansky made a tough decision to move to New York where he will be creating a new life for himself. Taking Ryan's place is long-time friend and fan of the band Justin Grunow, previously of Open on Impact. With a "new" lineup the band has decided to return to the vigorous schedules they only experienced in the band's earlier days.
The band has already began writing and composing for another full length, which will expand their new sound and attitude. There are no set dates for this release at the moment. Expect to see more soon, and keep your eyes and ears peeled for show dates and updates.
Previous Members include: Ryan Stansky, Micah Berman, Greg Smith, Josh Fleming, and Keith Dison.
