If you were skeptical when reading my preview piece about a rock ‘n roll band sans electric guitar, you’re not alone. Although majorly intrigued, I definitely had a few reservations when learning about Nonprofit Band.
Lead singer Michael Greilsammer explained that they originally planned to include the electric guitar in the album but, after the musician cancelled at the last minute, he felt this was a sign. He proposed the idea to fellow band members – Uriel Sverdin on drums and Ohad Eilam on bass – that they go forward with recording, replacing the guitar with the violin, elevated with an amp and pedal effects. Greilsammer insisted one doesn’t notice the lack of guitar in their music, yet I remained wary.
Strong 70s vibes hit me as I walked into House of Targ last Thursday evening, and I would soon discover this ambiance could not be more appropriate for the musical stylings I was about to enjoy. The collection of pinball machines, complete with stereotypical Tetris addict glued to his seat for hours, that stood before me coupled with the modest disco ball swinging lazily to signify the main stage reminded me of my mother’s youthful reminisces of the decade.
Phantom Hog opened and whet the crowd’s appetite with bass-heavy, funky tunes. After their rousing melodies and pointed vocals, Nonprofit Band changed the direction of the evening with their soulful, blues-inspired sound. Greilsammer flooded my mind with the image of a young Robert Plant, with his lithe stature, and long locks. As he began to sing, I quickly knew the comparison with Plant did not end there. Almost haunting with an undeniable strength, his voice is the perfect complement to their unique style of music.
And, I can say with confidence, Greilsammer was absolutely correct in his somewhat bold statement that most individuals do not miss, or even notice, the lack of guitar in their music. What resonates with a Nonprofit Band audience member is their charming mix of ingenuity combined with the simplicity of the classic rock genre.
Further setting themselves apart from their peers, Nonprofit Band has a fierce commitment to not only their fans but to the community overall. Michael Greilsammer cited the band’s life in Jersusalem made the conjunction of music with social awareness natural. Though they are still adjusting their system, they believe the band’s management by their fans is a key method of connecting organically with fans, on mediums that are not online.
Nonprofit Band is hanging on tight to this ideal of fan involvement and management throughout its current tour. This tour comprises the first Canadian shows to feature them as the headlining act and they’re looking forward to this opportunity not only to expose more audiences to their music but to spread the overall message of social awareness.
My only disappointment, albeit it a huge one? Learning too late that the kitchen closes at 10:30 and battling mean pierogi cravings the remainder of the night.
For more information on their tour and to download their new album, check out their website.
