Crazy Driver
Crazy Driver is not a "band" in the traditional sense... it is a collective studio project which may involve as few as one or as many as five or more musicians. The "brain" behind this operation is Dave Waite, a self-taught musician, songwriter and producer who has spent 20+ years on the outer fringes of the Rochester, NY music scene. Crazy Driver is noted for, but not limited to, "alternative" musical styles incorporating guitars and electronics.
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
Crazy Driver came into existence in 1993 as a one-man solo project by Dave Waite. A six-song EP was released in 1996 on cassette, released on CD a year later, and followed by a three-song CD single in 2000. Crazy Driver material has gotten airplay on Rochester, NY college radio, particularly WITR (89.7). A CD of new material is slated for release in 2005.
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
I don't *usually* play live, since Crazy Driver is primarily a one-man entity, but I can assemble a band for special events.
Your musical influences
Dave Waite first began recording in 1980, back when punk and new wave were happening and the airwaves were awash with the likes of Devo, Ultravox and Wall Of Voodoo. From these and other bands, Waite gathered influences and assembled over a hundred songs of similar vein from 1980-1985. After a long break from recording, he then gave birth to the Crazy Driver concept and began recording again in the mid-90's, this time incorporating a heavier, blues-influenced guitar and vocal style.
What equipment do you use?
I've used drum machines and synths since the beginning, and I currently use a Yamaha QY-20 for all of my backing tracks, augmented by a Yamaha DJX keyboard and a Korg PX4 digital recorder. I have a Dillion guitar which I use for just about all of my guitar tracks, usually running thru a Zoom 505 effects box.
Anything else?
Check out the mp3's and drop me an email... God Bless!
