OZMA October 30, 2006

OZMA
With special guest
EVERYBODY ELSE
OCTOBER 30, 9PM
CHOP SUEY -- ALL AGES

Forget all the matching suits, stripped down sounds and the revival of the overblown rock star attitude. Forget the critics’ proclamations that “rock is back,” because as far as OZMA is concerned, it never went away. The Pasadena five-piece, consisting of long time friends Daniel Brummel (24, vocals/bass), Ryen Slegr (27, vocals/guitar), Patrick Edwards (27, drums), Jose Galvez (27, guitar) and Star Wick (24, keys/flute), has rapidly matured their sound since they formed back in 1995 after meeting in high school and on the internet. Their first demo, recorded with Rod Cervera (Weezer, The Rentals), got them started on what seemed like a never-ending circular tour of Southern California, and helped them earn the few thousand dollars with which they financed the 1999 recording of their debut album, Rock and Roll Part Three. The 11 slabs of infectiously sing-able power pop on this little-album-that-could compelled Rivers Cuomo to insist that Ozma open two nationwide tours for Weezer in 2001 and 2002 -- before the band had even a label or booking agent supporting them. This kick started the spread of an already rabid fan base, and after selling 4,000 copies independently, Ozma signed to Kung Fu Records, and RRP3 hit stores for the first time. Then came The Doubble Donkey Disc, a double EP project that showcased the band’s diverse influences and imagination while retaining the unmistakable melodic and lyrical hooks characteristic of their debut. By integrating the traditional Ukrainian balalaika and Wick’s impeccable flute, Ozma zeroed in on a sound they describe as “Russian coldfusion.” Supporting the release with a main stage slot on the Warped Tour infused the group with the punk rock discipline to refine an intense live set that is both seasoned and spontaneous. Like true artists, Ozma continually strives to expand and perfect their sound. Each record is a progression; a new chapter, which builds upon their musical prowess and hints at the potential this versatile band is capable of.

Tickets are $10.00 plus applicable service charges and go on sale Saturday, September 23 at 10 a.m. and are available online at ticketmaster.com or hob.com, at all Ticketmaster outlets or charge by phone at (206) 628-0888

Official Website: http://hob.com/tickets/eventdetail.asp?eventid=41525