Uncle Tom
Uncle Tom is a guitar oriented hard-edged power pop rock band that writes and plays melodic catchy sing-along type songs, but with highly intelligent lyrics, tons of attitude, and a tongue-in-cheek sense of humor. Some of the influences of the band are The Beatles, early Cheap Trick, the Sex Pistols, The Monkees, and Tom Petty.
Uncle Tom was formed in Los Angeles in 1997 after the demise of an earlier band signed to Mojo Records called The Bogus Toms, and is lead by New York born vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter Robert "Beast" Best, who also has a Master's Degree in clinical psychology. Along with Louie Shilling on drums, and Fling on bass and vocals, they released their debut CD late February 1999 on indie Fuse Records.
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
This band was formed after a bad record deal and a year and a half of constant touring with THE BOGUS TOMS. After getting rid of the record company, two band members, and all the rest of the crap that went along with "that band", writing began for what was to become the new self- titled CD "UNCLE TOM" and is lead by New York born vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter Robert "Beast" Best, who also has a Master's Degree in clinical psychology. Along with Louie Shilling on drums, and Fling on bass and vocals, they released their debut CD late February 1999 on indie Fuse Records. This band is not afraid to tour, but this time they'll wait until the time is right. However, until then, they'll do shows now and then around L.A. to keep in shape....and they'll eat healthy...yeah right!!!
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
We were on the road touring about 300 days a year for three years with The Bogus Toms. All the time we were out playing, we thought the record company (Mojo Records) was doing something. But they were doing nothing. This time around, we are making sure things are getting done, and when we're ready we'll be out there!
Your musical influences
Some of the influences of the band are The Beatles, early Cheap Trick, the Sex Pistols, The Monkees, and Tom Petty.
What equipment do you use?
Gibsons, Fenders, Marshalls, Drums
Anything else?
The only thing as exciting as writing and recording a great CD, is playing the songs live. We've got a great record here, and we can't wait to tour and see you in person.
