Serving Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and other towns of the North Carolina High Country
Founded 05-05-05
March 27, 2008 issue
Music is a Family Affair for the Page Brothers
Duo to Host Star Studded Birthday Show at Canyons April 5
Story by David Brewer
For weeks, brothers Andy and Zack Page have been struggling to find a name for the band that features them, guitarist Doug James, Melissa Reaves, Nik Hope and Mike Runyon. After weeks of deliberation, the Pages have settled on P.H.R.R. (pronounced fur). And although the name omits James’ initials, Andy insisted that they mean no disrespect to the world-renowned guitarist, but are tired of looking.
Regardless of the name, the Page brothers and their incredible supporting cast will take the stage at Canyons on Saturday, April 5. The show is free and will start at 10:00 p.m.
According to Andy, P.H.R.R., which features members of bands Bafoodus and Hope Massive, will tackle material from across the brothers’ varied list of influences, including Jeff Beck, The Meters, The Commodores, The Spinners, Black Sabbath, Bob Marley and Tina Turner. In short, it’s going to be a musical mixed bag of funky, off-the-wall covers. The ASU professor also noted that although James is known for his mastery of classical guitar, his electric guitar chops are also a force to be reckoned with.
Although Andy is an ever-present force on the High Country music scene through gigs with Bafoodus, Todd Wright, the Swing Guitars and other projects, this will be the first time in many years that he and brother Zack have performed locally together.
“It’s kind of like a homecoming show for Zack,” said Andy. “He’s been living in Brooklyn for seven years and he’s moving back to North Carolina.”
Zack has performed around New York City at various clubs including B.B. King’s Blues Club and The Bitter End. He is now performing with Asheville soul pop vocalist and songwriter Kellin Watson.
P.H.R.R.’s debut show is also a birthday party for the Page Brothers. According to Andy, the pair started playing music together at age 13, when he received a guitar and Zack received a bass for Christmas. Their first musical love affair stemmed from across the pond, where Judas Priest, Iron Maiden and Black Sabbath—Britain’s masters of metal—reigned supreme.
“Oh yeah, we listened to a steady diet of those three,” said Andy. “We were into it big time.”
Andy had nothing but praise for all members of the band and is truly excited about the unique chemistry displayed by the seemingly odd grouping of musicians—a jazz guitarist and bassist, reggae drummer, classical guitarist, rock vocalist and funk keyboardist.
“Everyone in the band has played with each other on and off for the last 10 years,” said Andy, adding that other guests will likely take the stage before the night is over.
For more info, click to www.canyonsbr.com.
Want To Go?
Date: Saturday, April 5
Time: 10:00 p.m.
Location: Canyons
Cost: FREE!