The Velmas
The Velmas are a high energy rock band from Albany, NY. Since the 2002 release of Another Day at School, they've been touring the Northeast US, building a considerable fan base.
They released the "Double EP", Recess, in 2004. Recess includes the song “Restless, Restless,” which was selected out of thousands of entries as one of the top 20 finalists on Howard Stern’s much-publicized “Restless, Restless” contest - they even had a clip of their song played on Stern’s radio show. The Velmas are currently working on their followup full-length album, to be released on City Canyons Records in 2006.
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
The VeLMAs American for Rock
Since 1999, the Velmas - bassist Todd “Figaro” Minnick, guitarist Mike “Harvey” Grosshandler and drummer Michael “Bruce” Bruce - have been entertaining upstate New York. The band has become a favorite around Albany and Syracuse, NY, and is gaining popularity throughout the Northeastern U.S.
In 2002, the Velmas released their debut album, Another Day At School. Since its release, the album has received rave reviews and has opened doors of opportunity for the band. This was followed by Recess (2004), a “double EP” featuring new and unreleased studio tracks, as well as several live tracks. The Velmas are currently working on their second full-length album, which will be released on City Canyons records in 2006.
The Velmas are three singers and songwriters creating powerful rock music. Their sound is influenced by old-school to modern rock, punk, reggae, and even country and classical. In concert, the Velmas back their music with a playful, high-energy live show, which is the reason why Albany-area "Velmites" have voted them the Capital Region’s "Best Alternative Band" (Metroland, 2006).
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
The Velmas have performed all over the Northeast US - from Buffalo, NY to Boston, MA - from Burlington, VT, to New York City, NY and Pottersville, NJ - and everywhere in between.
Your musical influences
The Velmas make original music. Our musical influences are vast and varied, and include: The Beatles, Nirvana, Sublime, Alice In Chains, Kiss, Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Veruca Salt, Pearl Jam, Type O Negative, Smashing Pumpkins, and many others.
Anything else?
The Velmas love you!
