ORION nj
Orion was a band that existed primarily from 1976-1981
It consisted of 3 future members of AVALON USA, Joel Pirard, John Curtin, Jeff Kalmar, and also CJ Truitt and Roger Schnur. Previous members included Brian Legierre on drums, Jay MacMahon on vocals, Tony Lugamano who replaced Roger for a time, when he left, as did Brian) on drums, but the core became Joel, John and Jeff, until Roger returned, and CJ joined up.
These songs are from original tapes made in 1980 from board mixes. In at least one or two occasions, the tapes have been slightly damaged over the years. I am trying to locate backups (they did exist) to archive these.
The energy and audacity of youth was apparent. Banana Sound (still in business in NJ) was the sound and recording company. To you, all these years later, who may remember us, I hope this brings back some pleasant memories--J Pirard
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
John and Jeff were cousins who had a band with Roger, I joined, as did Jay, then Roger left, Tony joined, then he left, then Brian, and Roger returned until and much later CJ ,and then we played together 5 years,
In 1989, Jeff, Bruce Henninger and I formed AVALON USA, recruiting John and eventually Dan Bonadeo.
in 2007, Jester's Promenade, featuring Joel and John, with Bruce Henninger of AVALON USA was formed.
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
MANY TIMES in the mid 70's until 1981
Your musical influences
YES, GENESIS, KANSAS, ELP...
Anything else?
Jeff Kalmar guitar, violin, vocal
John Curtin bass
Joel Pirard, Keyboards, vocal
Roger Schnur, Drums, vibes, percussion
CJ Truitt, lead vocal, percussion
other members were George Shater, Brian Legierre, Tony Lugomeno. Jay MacMahon, and John Hancer
