The Spikedrivers
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play lo-fi play hi-fi  Already
play lo-fi play hi-fi  Ain't That Bad
The Spikedrivers started in Feb. '03 as an acoustic trio named The Highwayneers. Our group was inspired by the success of our live performances and immediately realized a niche previously unfulfilled in the local music scene in Columbus, Ohio. A mutual friend of the band, Tim Odell, was asked to join in April so as to further diversify our sound with the addition of percussion. We began a regular act at local bars and taverns and by the summer of '03 we had opened up a more eclectic sound by adding the electric feel, but also by utilizing traditional instruments such as the banjo and mandolin. The Highwayneers name was phased out around this time and we began to call ourselves The Spikedrivers. The group has recently become a five piece with the addition of fiddle player Meagan Palmer as we continue to forge new ground musically and challenge each other as well as our audiences.
Why this name?
The name "The Spikedrivers" came from a John Henry reference. Jon Henry (a mythical American icon, i.e. the guy who beat the steam drill) was suggested for use by another mutual friend, David Riggle. We first used the name satirically with Jesse Henry (the lead vocalist and prominent songwriter in our group) though it is also analogous to the left wing political statement of a single man being more powerful in ideology than the mechanical system of government, media, and all of the other modes of control.
Do you play live?
Our group was founded on being performance-based and we have always kept true to the improvisational spirit of the music. We always have our ears open for new venues to create our art, but mostly we perform at Ruby Tuesdays and Oldfields on High (in Columbus, OH).
How, do you think, does the internet (or mp3) change the music industry?
The open communication of the Internet can be a double-edged blade for struggling musicians. One positive aspect is that small groups can utilize a vast and diverse audience to gain recognition and grow from the "wisdom of the masses". The negative aspect would most likely be the fact that this "wisdom of the masses" can be a "gumption trap" and it can be clearly seen as negate personal growth at home where it is most important. A grass roots approach is definitely positive, but whatever happened to being involved personally in your musical community? True things can be achieved much faster on the net but it does seem to be a little cluttered artistically. We are definitely not trying to get lost in antiquity, but rather, choosing both the web and our own networking ability here at home
Would you sign a record contract with a major label?
The eternal musical paradox of art vs integrity is one we would rather not debate without the forum of "What Deal?", "What Label?" That is to say that we are not opposed to being on a major record label, but it would depend mostly on the benefit of both art and integrity.
Your influences?
Our influences include Lois Jordan, Woody Gutherie, Mississippi John Hurt, John Prine, Bob Dylan, Muddy Waters, Chuck Berry, Hank Williams, Doc Watson, Lois Armstrong, Billie Holiday, Django Rhinehardt and way too many others to even list.
Favorite spot?
I have no idea but Columbus is OK.
Equipment used:
Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Double Bass, Harmonica, Snare w/ brushes, Violin, Mandolin, Banjo, etc.
Anything else...?
The Band Is:

Jesse Henry- Vocals/Guitar
Paul Goll- Lead Guitar/Mandolin/Vocals
Steven Fox- Double Bass
Tim O'Dell- Drums/ Blues Harp

Songs on the CD:

1. "All Ready"
2. "St. James Infirmery"
3. "1492"
4. "Ain't That Bad"
5. "Built For Comfort"
6. "Didn't Come for This"

Also, check out the great reviews on Garageband.com. We've got 5 Stars!

http://www.garageband.com/artist/TheSpikedrivers
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