Post by wingsj0 on Apr 30, 2006 11:09:06 GMT
2005 International BeatlesWeek Special.
I'm sure that most of you reading this fanzine have often wondered what the music industry might have been like if John Lennon had lived, when George Harrison was alive, and the question that is on most Beatle's fans lips is: Would The Beatles have got back together for one last time? Some believe the answer would have been 'no' but part of me likes to think they would have got together at some point for a charity event for world-peace, or performed at Sir Bob Geldof's Live Aid/8, sadly, we'll never know. However, the next best thing are The Fab Faux from New York City. This is the band to see if you want to know what it might have been like if The Beatles had to promote their later albums. Well known for performing the songs the Beatles themselves didn't play live. The Fab Faux concentrate on harmonies, instrumentation, and their attention to detail is astounding when performing songs from the Beatles obscure catalogue. Imagine hearing complex material like 'Strawberry Fields,' 'I Am The Walrus,' and 'Being For The Benefit of Mr Kite,' 'Fixing A Hole,' 'Helter Skelter,' 'Oh Darling,' 'Dear Prudence,' 'Something,' ' Baby You're A Rich Man,' performed in complete part-perfect renditions; or such harmony-driven songs as ‘Because’, ‘Nowhere Man’, and ‘Paperback Writer’, reproduced not only note-for-note, but with extra vocalists available the bands able to achieve a double-tracked effect!
Since their formation in the spring of 1998, the Fab Faux have created a buzz among Beatle fans in the New York City area, packing The Bowery Ballroom, Webster Hall, Irving Plazza, The Bottom Line, and The China Club with high energy shows; for an audience liberally sprinkled with fellow musicians, celebrities and fans alike.
People took notice when the group were featured during a full-length profile on CNN which was broadcast all over the world on several of that network's programs and participated in a CD of original material by Beatles tribute bands, recorded in London at Abbey Road Studios! Since August '99, the group have performed multiple times in Liverpool, England, where they play three shows each year for that city's annual Beatle Week festivities, including outdoor concerts for over 35,000 people on the Apple-sponsored Yellow Submarine and Let It Be stages.
So, for Beatles fans (and music fans,) the choice is clear; if you want to hear songs recreated that were written, arranged, and performed with a genius and talent sadly missing from today's music scene; if you're too young to remember what all the fuss was about, or if you just want to see one of the best live rock bands performing today, look no further than - The Fab Faux.
Boasting the high visibility of TV star/musicians Will Lee from The Late Show with David Letterman and Jimmy Vivino from Late Night with Conan O'Brien; five strong lead vocalists (including Rich Pagano)
A Fab Faux Story....
In 1999 Will Schillinger, who produced Cavern City Tours 'Why Don't We Do It In Abbey Road,' brought the Fab Faux to International Beatle Week. Schillinger told us: "Will, and Rich, and the guys had been friends of mine through the music and recording industry for many years prior to the formation of the Fab Faux. I was an instant fan of the Fab Faux (who wouldn't be?) I immediately recognized them as the most superior Faux Beatle Band. They are the most talented players on the planet, whatever music they choose to play and I am glad they play Beatles."
On Saturday the 28th of August The Fab Faux made their debut at International Beatles Week. The only difference being, the line-up included NY session guitarist Andy York on guitar (from Ian Hunter’s Rant Band) who'd stepped in at the last minute for the bands original guitarist Jimmy Vivino. By the end of their set the band left an entire theatre of Beatles fans speechless, and became the talk of the festival – The Fab Faux had landed! Several Beatle Weeks later, The Fab Faux have become as infectious as The Beatles themselves, die-hard fans queue hours before a gig to ensure a front row spot. This year, the Carling Academy was packed to the rafters, it was impossible to move and the heat was unbearable, but it didn't stop fans from having the time of their life's. The Faux love playing Liverpool and for hundreds of Beatle fans who make the yearly pilgrimage to Beatle Week, the Fab Faux shows are apart of what makes it special. Front man, and bass guitarist Will Lee says: "Liverpool is Mecca for all us Beatle fans. When Beatle Week happens (each year around the August Bank Holiday) fans from all over the world converge to hear this music played. When it's played well, the fans love it and really show their appreciation, as a performer, that's as good as it gets. As a Beatle fan, the imagination goes wild just being in THE place that gave birth to a movement and a culture that changed the world." Guitarist Frank Agnello says: "We love playing Liverpool, for us it's the source of the greatest popular music ever, the history is everywhere, and our understanding of how this music came about deepened immediately from our first visit, gave us greater empathy for our own performance of it. And of course, the fans that get together for the convention are the greatest Beatle fans in the world." No matter what creed, or colour your skin is John Lennon's song comes true in the form of Beatle Week, where for one week of the year different cultures get together to celebrate in harmony the legacy of the most famous band in the world, The Beatles.
Most Beatle fans have a reason for loving the fab four so how did members of the Fab Faux become acquainted with the Beatles and their music? Fab Will continues: "Well I was 11 and living in Texas. As many people remember, the assassination of JFK, which occurred in November 1963 had Americans suffering a dull depression and the release of "I Want To Hold Your Hand" on January 13, 1964 was a real bright light of positivity which served as a total change of mood musically and spiritually for anyone who was tuning in! Once the Beatles hit the TV screen (Feb 9th, 1964-Ed Sullivan Show). That was it- we were in a new era. The Beatles blew everyone away. I loved their incredible diversity. Look how fast they changed and grew, not wanting to repeat what they had already done, not trying to hang on to success by using a safe formula", and with the incredible level of song writing, urged on by a healthy dose of competition and respect amongst band members, the quality of each new piece was always hi-level. They kept getting it right, song-after-song. How exciting is that!" Not only was Fab Will encouraged by the sounds of the Beatles his parents inspired him also: "Both my parents were great musicians- my Mom was an incredible singer, kind of a white Sarah Vaughan (for lack of a better comparison), dad was and still is an accomplished jazz pianist. Lots of influence there. By the time the Beatles "invaded", I had already attempted a few instruments - piano, violin, trumpet, but the Ed Sullivan performance was what got me to go back to my room and start playing my drum kit which I had for years, but had not really been inspired to play. I really sucked on them, but I thought I was totally happening at the time!! Recently, I thanked Ringo for that moment." Fab Frank says: "It was really the second or third time that was special for me. I was 6, it was early '64, and I'd only focused in on the "Yeah Yeah Yeah's" of "She Loves You" a couple of times. I thought, "Ok that's the band with the long hair that says those funny things in their songs." But then my cousin brought over a couple of their albums and played them on my phonograph. I remember hearing 'It Won't Be Long,' with its contrasting sections and moods, and thinking: "Hey, they're really good too." And so my life long interest in listening to and making music began. I liked the Beatles because of the strength and solidness of what they tried to get across, both musically and lyrically. It doesn't date for me, in fact, their music seems to hold up better and better as time passes. Fab Frank discovered he had an ear for music when he was young, and taught himself guitar: I had a guitar in my hand from just about when I was ready to hold one me.They tell me "Tom Dooley" by The Kingston Trio was one of the first songs I sang, but I don't remember that Jack the Fab Faux’s keyboardist says: “I first heard the Beatles at the age of 4 in the back seat of my mom's car. The radio was on and playing Hello Goodbye. Whilst listening to the Beatles George Harrison inspired me to learn the guitar, he’ll always be favourite.”……..
The Fab Faux had discovered the Beatles but how did the Faux discover the Faux and who noticed the bands potential? Fab Will explains:" I first met and played with Fab Rich Pagano on a tour of Europe with guitarist Hiram Bullock (Thanks Hiram!) and was amazed by his singing and playing as well as his vast Beatles knowledge. It dawned on me a little later to put a band together to play (only) Beatles music and Rich had to be at the core of it. Fab Jimmy Vivino was the other person I knew we needed in order to make it come to life. Through Rich's network, we were lucky to find Fab Frank Agnello and finally Fab Jack Petruzzelli. Ladies and Gents, The Fab Faux! We first sat down at my apartment with Jimmy on the piano where we began to get to know each others' voices. First tune? "Because". It was very exciting having five talented members of this calibre of singing and playing. It allowed us to have those little things that make the records so magical: doubled vocals, percussion parts, the three guitar trade-off from The End etc". Fab Frank continues: "When we were able to sing "Because" we knew we could have this band, because we didn't expect anything to be much more difficult to perform than that one. The same year Will Schillinger, who produced CCT's" Why Don't We Do It" in Abbey Road, invited us in January of 1999 to record and play in the UK later that year". In August this year The Fab Faux brought to Liverpool their Ex Factor solo years show which has been hailed by fans, (including me Ed) Cavern City Tours the week's organisers as the bands greatest performance ever and was obvious to the sold out Academy that hours, and hours of practice have gone into the preparation, Fab Will explains: “The first step is, whose singing lead? Then, who's singing which background parts and what instruments are needed and who's playing what? Once we get together on that stuff, we focus on learning our own parts at home and when we assemble, everyone’s good to go. Fab Frank is integral in this part of the process by listing instrumentation, etc. We could have floundered about forever (and we basically did!) about what songs to do and what not to do. We could've gotten so obscure that we would've gone over all but the most studious fans' heads!! We knew we had to keep the material fairly hi-profile and mix in a "deep cut" here and there. We all chose an equal amount of tunes (5 each) and tried to represent all 4 Beatles' solo careers. I personally wanted to do stuff that I had the strongest feeling about doing, and for the most part, we all did that. Jimmy chose some songs solely for the purpose of keeping the energy of the show up, so he really made a bit of a sacrifice for others (like myself) could do the slower songs like Junk and Jealous Guy. I was talked out of doing All Those Years Ago at the request of the band wanting me to do Give Me Love instead. It was a real team effort. One last thing I should say is that the guys really lifted me up into the Solo Years project. It wasn't something I had ever aspired to do, but once it happened, many people said it was one of their favourite Fab Faux experiences (most were younger than yours truly and had heard this stuff on the radio more than Beatles music!) Fab Frank continues: “It varies from show to show, a regular “mixed” show usually takes no more than two rehearsals, an album theme show takes about five and the recent Ex-Factor shows took at least thirteen! But we all rehearse at home ourselves as well, and for the Ex-Factor and Psychedlia shows, there was also a long period where we went back and forth about what the set list would be”. For me, this was by far there best gig ever and Beatle Week had just about got over there precise performance of The Beatles. The White album performed in all it’s eternity in 2003 and they’d done it again!! The band performed songs from John Lennon’s, Paul McCartney’s (Wings thanks guys!!), and George Harrison’s, Ringo Starrs’ solo careers along with the Hoggs Heads Horns, The Cream Tangerine Strings and Tony Skeggs (on rhythm guitar.) Erin Hill on strings. From George Harrison’s ‘Any Road’ (taken from his last album ‘Brainwashed.’) to a mind blowing performance of Paul McCartney and Wings ‘Too Many People,’ ’including John Lennon’s ‘What Ever Get’s You Through The Night,’ Ringo Starr’s ‘Photograph’ to list four of there 20 odd song set-list! They had the Carling Academy rocking from start to finish.
Back home, the Fab Faux are as busy as ever not only do they concentrate on the Faux because the Faux include some of New York’s most sought after musicians, and front man Will Lee was recently voted as the worlds best bass player in the Bass Guitar magazine,) and has a CV most musicians could only dream of. Fab Will shared with us some of the highlights: “There have been many, including playing with James Brown, doing Live Aid, playing with Sting on a few shows of his (Rainforest Benefits, Letterman, and others), recording with many greats, doing a solo album of my own, etc. Having said that, The Beatles are on another level from anything else that's ever happened and because of that, playing with George Harrison at his final concert at Royal Albert Hall was an immense thrill-words can't describe. And when Ringo joined us for the encore, fuhgettaboutit!! Playing with Paul at the Concert For New York was an unbelievable joy. He's a god, a legend, a knight and-oh yeah-a hell of a great guy because of how amazing the Beatles records are, The Fab Faux is the thing that give me the most round- the clock joy I love the challenge of trying to make it all happen on the stage.” Keyboardist Jack Petruzzelli is currently touring the UK with the sensational singer-song writer Rufus Wainright, and recently appeared on the UK’s award winning day time TV show Paul O’ Grady with Rufus Wainright (yes, you’ve been spotted under your hat jack). He’s also a member of the NY Ian Hunter’s Rant Band and works along side Joan Osburne, Curt Smith, Vanessa Paradis to list a few. Faux drummer Rich Pagano is another incredibly busy musician. Kept busy in his own recording studios *New Calcutta* Rich discovers new talent within the New York area. His co-production and performance on the latest Willie Nile release ‘Beautiful Wreck.’ earned him a Top 10 Album of the Year honours in both Billboard Magazine and the Village Voice. He’s best-known for the group ‘Marry Me Jane,’ and has also recorded or performed with Patti Smith, Robbie Robertson, Rosanne Cash, Ray Davies, Freedy Johnston, Joan Osborne, and Mott the Hoople legend Ian Hunter. Guitarist Frank Agnello is an accomplished songwriter; Frank has produced several projects from his home studio in addition to his own music, developing artist and TV commercials. He has toured as guitarist for a European production of the musical Hair; performed in the Self-Righteous Brothers with Jimmy V. and Al Kooper; and appeared in the The Beat Goes On series, as both a featured performer and band member - supporting such artists as Marshall Crenshaw, Mike Viola, Phoebe Snow, Willie Nile, Jill Sobule, Richard Lloyd, Ivan Julian, and Jackie DeShannon. Jimmy Vivino also sports a high musical profile as guitarist/arranger for the Max Weinberg Seven on Late Night with Conan O'Brien; and leads that group when Max tours with ‘The boss,’ Bruce Springsteen.
Since there sell out shows during Beatle Week and their performance/interview on the Howard Stern radio show back home in New York, the band received over 3,000 enquires, and hopefully this might mean a possible album on the arisen? Fab Will explains “You know, we do have an album that is in progress, but we are so danged busy with life, that we are very slow to put it together- it's coming!” Fab Frank continues:: “We have 9 songs musically completed and ready for vocals; when there'll be time to finish them is anyone's guess...”
The guys told me why they think The Beatles music has stood the test of time: Fab Will says:” I think the dynamic between John and Paul, two unique geniuses, coming from a tough working-class existence, dreaming of a better life, finding that music really turned them on, discovering the American artists that inspired them, being hungry at a young age to make that music their own, develop it into something else, lucking into George and Ringo and Brian Epstein and George Martin having the confidence to apply themselves and express something that so many people could relate all made for a finished product called Beatles Music that we are still enjoying listening to. Fab Frank continues: “The quality of the songs is incredibly strong and sturdy; the messages are universal and maintain their relevance and the consistency of their body of work is staggering.” Everyone has a favourite Beatle so which Beatle do the guys admire the most: Fab Will says: “It depends on the day. Today, it's Ringo. Why? because of his incredible contributions as a musician. There are people who ask if he's any good as a drummer. Chances are, they're comparing him with cats who are known for flashier styles of playing. All I can say is: Listen to what he does for the song!! Fab Frank says: “John Lennon, because he was the first Halloween costume I ever wore...” International Beatles Week is every Beatles fans dream, so what do The Fab Faux the festivals ‘headliners,’ think of the festival and how do they sell it to those who haven’t been: “ Fab Will Says: “ I always tell people that this is the most gratifying time and place to play Beatles music and if they wanted to come check it out I would say " buy your tickets early and rest up before hand and oh, you know that one sick day you have left? Try and reserve it to sleep off the experience after you get home!" I would also tell folks that if they decide to go to Liverpool, especially during Beatleweek, that they'll meet some of the nicest people on the planet while there!” Fab Frank says: “Hundreds of Beatles fanatics all together in the same place! Actually, all I think I'd need to say is that it's the place where one can walk into a music store and see musicians buying guitar strings dressed in Sgt. Pepper suits.”... And the highlights of the festival for the Faux are, Fab Will: “I love being surprised at how great some of the talent there is! My favourite bands from Beatle Week 2005, are The Beatbrothers!, Bob Bartey and Banned On The Run, The Overtures, a trio I heard in one of the bars was unbelievable. Fab Frank continues: “Highlights for me is seeing all the wonderful friends we’ve been fortunate to make on our visits there. The Overtures' 2 sets I saw were fantastic; they seemed really "in a zone" and everything worked together in harmony, even lighting at The Adelphi was perfect. It was like a 60's happening - visual, a little bit, to complement the wonderful music they played. I also dug The Prellies - great energy - that's what good rock and roll’s all about”….
If you were to describe a Fab Faux show how for a rock ‘n’ roll music book how would you word it:? Fab Will: “Chances are you'll have an amazing experience. You won't see people dressed as anyone else, but you will see passion like you don't usually see these days. You will see some of the finest musicians challenging themselves to bring you the best music we can play. As I have stated on stage many times, unless we are doing an album, no two shows are alike, so it’s always a surprise to see what come next!” Fab Franks says: “5 guys playing the parts from Beatles records, and singing the songs in our own voices. And for those who haven’t had the opportunity to see The Fab Faux live where can they come and see you: Fab Will says: “To keep up with that question accurately, please make sure you are on our mailing list. You can join it through the website www.thefabfaux.com or by writing to us at theboys@thefabfaux.com . What other ambitions do members of the fab faux have for the band: Fab Will says: “We have been together for over 7 years and we have just recently gotten a lot of exposure in the US to many people who didn't know of us before, due to Rolling Stone magazine and The Howard Stern radio show. There are many shows booked for the future and we will try to always keep it fresh by playing song lists we haven't done before. We always like to mix it up. One of my favourite things to do is pull out songs we haven't played in a long time, which keeps us on edge. I'd hate to see us start taking this material for granted by playing it too much. It's one of the things that makes a Fab Faux show exciting- we are as excited to play it as the audience is to hear it – FOR REAL! Fab Jack told us: “We shall carry on till the ride stops but for now I love the music and Jimmy, Will, Frank, Rich. Did I miss someone? Oh yea me Jack.”
I’d like to thank The Fab Faux for taking the time out of their hectic schedules to do this fascinating interview with us, and all that’s left to say is. If you live in the US, especially in the New York area, and the band are playing at a venue near you go! (book your tickets and be prepared to be amazed – I know you will be! Ed).
Not only do the The Fab Faux consist of some of the most talented musicians on the planet, to date the band includes the nicest guys you could wish to meet.
Jo Rishton
With The Fab Faux’s
Will Lee, Frank Agnello, Jack Petruzzelli.
Official Site: www.thefabfaux.com
This interview has been approved by The Fab Faux.
Please note all articles on this site are (C) to The Beat Goes On And On Fanzine and may not be used without permission.
To book tickets or to find out more about International Beatles Week visit here: www.cavern-liverpool.co.uk/beatleweek
Photos from Beatle Week 2005 can be viewed at: www.cavern-liverpool.co.uk/beatleweek/history/2005/BWscrap2005.htm
I'm sure that most of you reading this fanzine have often wondered what the music industry might have been like if John Lennon had lived, when George Harrison was alive, and the question that is on most Beatle's fans lips is: Would The Beatles have got back together for one last time? Some believe the answer would have been 'no' but part of me likes to think they would have got together at some point for a charity event for world-peace, or performed at Sir Bob Geldof's Live Aid/8, sadly, we'll never know. However, the next best thing are The Fab Faux from New York City. This is the band to see if you want to know what it might have been like if The Beatles had to promote their later albums. Well known for performing the songs the Beatles themselves didn't play live. The Fab Faux concentrate on harmonies, instrumentation, and their attention to detail is astounding when performing songs from the Beatles obscure catalogue. Imagine hearing complex material like 'Strawberry Fields,' 'I Am The Walrus,' and 'Being For The Benefit of Mr Kite,' 'Fixing A Hole,' 'Helter Skelter,' 'Oh Darling,' 'Dear Prudence,' 'Something,' ' Baby You're A Rich Man,' performed in complete part-perfect renditions; or such harmony-driven songs as ‘Because’, ‘Nowhere Man’, and ‘Paperback Writer’, reproduced not only note-for-note, but with extra vocalists available the bands able to achieve a double-tracked effect!
Since their formation in the spring of 1998, the Fab Faux have created a buzz among Beatle fans in the New York City area, packing The Bowery Ballroom, Webster Hall, Irving Plazza, The Bottom Line, and The China Club with high energy shows; for an audience liberally sprinkled with fellow musicians, celebrities and fans alike.
People took notice when the group were featured during a full-length profile on CNN which was broadcast all over the world on several of that network's programs and participated in a CD of original material by Beatles tribute bands, recorded in London at Abbey Road Studios! Since August '99, the group have performed multiple times in Liverpool, England, where they play three shows each year for that city's annual Beatle Week festivities, including outdoor concerts for over 35,000 people on the Apple-sponsored Yellow Submarine and Let It Be stages.
So, for Beatles fans (and music fans,) the choice is clear; if you want to hear songs recreated that were written, arranged, and performed with a genius and talent sadly missing from today's music scene; if you're too young to remember what all the fuss was about, or if you just want to see one of the best live rock bands performing today, look no further than - The Fab Faux.
Boasting the high visibility of TV star/musicians Will Lee from The Late Show with David Letterman and Jimmy Vivino from Late Night with Conan O'Brien; five strong lead vocalists (including Rich Pagano)
A Fab Faux Story....
In 1999 Will Schillinger, who produced Cavern City Tours 'Why Don't We Do It In Abbey Road,' brought the Fab Faux to International Beatle Week. Schillinger told us: "Will, and Rich, and the guys had been friends of mine through the music and recording industry for many years prior to the formation of the Fab Faux. I was an instant fan of the Fab Faux (who wouldn't be?) I immediately recognized them as the most superior Faux Beatle Band. They are the most talented players on the planet, whatever music they choose to play and I am glad they play Beatles."
On Saturday the 28th of August The Fab Faux made their debut at International Beatles Week. The only difference being, the line-up included NY session guitarist Andy York on guitar (from Ian Hunter’s Rant Band) who'd stepped in at the last minute for the bands original guitarist Jimmy Vivino. By the end of their set the band left an entire theatre of Beatles fans speechless, and became the talk of the festival – The Fab Faux had landed! Several Beatle Weeks later, The Fab Faux have become as infectious as The Beatles themselves, die-hard fans queue hours before a gig to ensure a front row spot. This year, the Carling Academy was packed to the rafters, it was impossible to move and the heat was unbearable, but it didn't stop fans from having the time of their life's. The Faux love playing Liverpool and for hundreds of Beatle fans who make the yearly pilgrimage to Beatle Week, the Fab Faux shows are apart of what makes it special. Front man, and bass guitarist Will Lee says: "Liverpool is Mecca for all us Beatle fans. When Beatle Week happens (each year around the August Bank Holiday) fans from all over the world converge to hear this music played. When it's played well, the fans love it and really show their appreciation, as a performer, that's as good as it gets. As a Beatle fan, the imagination goes wild just being in THE place that gave birth to a movement and a culture that changed the world." Guitarist Frank Agnello says: "We love playing Liverpool, for us it's the source of the greatest popular music ever, the history is everywhere, and our understanding of how this music came about deepened immediately from our first visit, gave us greater empathy for our own performance of it. And of course, the fans that get together for the convention are the greatest Beatle fans in the world." No matter what creed, or colour your skin is John Lennon's song comes true in the form of Beatle Week, where for one week of the year different cultures get together to celebrate in harmony the legacy of the most famous band in the world, The Beatles.
Most Beatle fans have a reason for loving the fab four so how did members of the Fab Faux become acquainted with the Beatles and their music? Fab Will continues: "Well I was 11 and living in Texas. As many people remember, the assassination of JFK, which occurred in November 1963 had Americans suffering a dull depression and the release of "I Want To Hold Your Hand" on January 13, 1964 was a real bright light of positivity which served as a total change of mood musically and spiritually for anyone who was tuning in! Once the Beatles hit the TV screen (Feb 9th, 1964-Ed Sullivan Show). That was it- we were in a new era. The Beatles blew everyone away. I loved their incredible diversity. Look how fast they changed and grew, not wanting to repeat what they had already done, not trying to hang on to success by using a safe formula", and with the incredible level of song writing, urged on by a healthy dose of competition and respect amongst band members, the quality of each new piece was always hi-level. They kept getting it right, song-after-song. How exciting is that!" Not only was Fab Will encouraged by the sounds of the Beatles his parents inspired him also: "Both my parents were great musicians- my Mom was an incredible singer, kind of a white Sarah Vaughan (for lack of a better comparison), dad was and still is an accomplished jazz pianist. Lots of influence there. By the time the Beatles "invaded", I had already attempted a few instruments - piano, violin, trumpet, but the Ed Sullivan performance was what got me to go back to my room and start playing my drum kit which I had for years, but had not really been inspired to play. I really sucked on them, but I thought I was totally happening at the time!! Recently, I thanked Ringo for that moment." Fab Frank says: "It was really the second or third time that was special for me. I was 6, it was early '64, and I'd only focused in on the "Yeah Yeah Yeah's" of "She Loves You" a couple of times. I thought, "Ok that's the band with the long hair that says those funny things in their songs." But then my cousin brought over a couple of their albums and played them on my phonograph. I remember hearing 'It Won't Be Long,' with its contrasting sections and moods, and thinking: "Hey, they're really good too." And so my life long interest in listening to and making music began. I liked the Beatles because of the strength and solidness of what they tried to get across, both musically and lyrically. It doesn't date for me, in fact, their music seems to hold up better and better as time passes. Fab Frank discovered he had an ear for music when he was young, and taught himself guitar: I had a guitar in my hand from just about when I was ready to hold one me.They tell me "Tom Dooley" by The Kingston Trio was one of the first songs I sang, but I don't remember that Jack the Fab Faux’s keyboardist says: “I first heard the Beatles at the age of 4 in the back seat of my mom's car. The radio was on and playing Hello Goodbye. Whilst listening to the Beatles George Harrison inspired me to learn the guitar, he’ll always be favourite.”……..
The Fab Faux had discovered the Beatles but how did the Faux discover the Faux and who noticed the bands potential? Fab Will explains:" I first met and played with Fab Rich Pagano on a tour of Europe with guitarist Hiram Bullock (Thanks Hiram!) and was amazed by his singing and playing as well as his vast Beatles knowledge. It dawned on me a little later to put a band together to play (only) Beatles music and Rich had to be at the core of it. Fab Jimmy Vivino was the other person I knew we needed in order to make it come to life. Through Rich's network, we were lucky to find Fab Frank Agnello and finally Fab Jack Petruzzelli. Ladies and Gents, The Fab Faux! We first sat down at my apartment with Jimmy on the piano where we began to get to know each others' voices. First tune? "Because". It was very exciting having five talented members of this calibre of singing and playing. It allowed us to have those little things that make the records so magical: doubled vocals, percussion parts, the three guitar trade-off from The End etc". Fab Frank continues: "When we were able to sing "Because" we knew we could have this band, because we didn't expect anything to be much more difficult to perform than that one. The same year Will Schillinger, who produced CCT's" Why Don't We Do It" in Abbey Road, invited us in January of 1999 to record and play in the UK later that year". In August this year The Fab Faux brought to Liverpool their Ex Factor solo years show which has been hailed by fans, (including me Ed) Cavern City Tours the week's organisers as the bands greatest performance ever and was obvious to the sold out Academy that hours, and hours of practice have gone into the preparation, Fab Will explains: “The first step is, whose singing lead? Then, who's singing which background parts and what instruments are needed and who's playing what? Once we get together on that stuff, we focus on learning our own parts at home and when we assemble, everyone’s good to go. Fab Frank is integral in this part of the process by listing instrumentation, etc. We could have floundered about forever (and we basically did!) about what songs to do and what not to do. We could've gotten so obscure that we would've gone over all but the most studious fans' heads!! We knew we had to keep the material fairly hi-profile and mix in a "deep cut" here and there. We all chose an equal amount of tunes (5 each) and tried to represent all 4 Beatles' solo careers. I personally wanted to do stuff that I had the strongest feeling about doing, and for the most part, we all did that. Jimmy chose some songs solely for the purpose of keeping the energy of the show up, so he really made a bit of a sacrifice for others (like myself) could do the slower songs like Junk and Jealous Guy. I was talked out of doing All Those Years Ago at the request of the band wanting me to do Give Me Love instead. It was a real team effort. One last thing I should say is that the guys really lifted me up into the Solo Years project. It wasn't something I had ever aspired to do, but once it happened, many people said it was one of their favourite Fab Faux experiences (most were younger than yours truly and had heard this stuff on the radio more than Beatles music!) Fab Frank continues: “It varies from show to show, a regular “mixed” show usually takes no more than two rehearsals, an album theme show takes about five and the recent Ex-Factor shows took at least thirteen! But we all rehearse at home ourselves as well, and for the Ex-Factor and Psychedlia shows, there was also a long period where we went back and forth about what the set list would be”. For me, this was by far there best gig ever and Beatle Week had just about got over there precise performance of The Beatles. The White album performed in all it’s eternity in 2003 and they’d done it again!! The band performed songs from John Lennon’s, Paul McCartney’s (Wings thanks guys!!), and George Harrison’s, Ringo Starrs’ solo careers along with the Hoggs Heads Horns, The Cream Tangerine Strings and Tony Skeggs (on rhythm guitar.) Erin Hill on strings. From George Harrison’s ‘Any Road’ (taken from his last album ‘Brainwashed.’) to a mind blowing performance of Paul McCartney and Wings ‘Too Many People,’ ’including John Lennon’s ‘What Ever Get’s You Through The Night,’ Ringo Starr’s ‘Photograph’ to list four of there 20 odd song set-list! They had the Carling Academy rocking from start to finish.
Back home, the Fab Faux are as busy as ever not only do they concentrate on the Faux because the Faux include some of New York’s most sought after musicians, and front man Will Lee was recently voted as the worlds best bass player in the Bass Guitar magazine,) and has a CV most musicians could only dream of. Fab Will shared with us some of the highlights: “There have been many, including playing with James Brown, doing Live Aid, playing with Sting on a few shows of his (Rainforest Benefits, Letterman, and others), recording with many greats, doing a solo album of my own, etc. Having said that, The Beatles are on another level from anything else that's ever happened and because of that, playing with George Harrison at his final concert at Royal Albert Hall was an immense thrill-words can't describe. And when Ringo joined us for the encore, fuhgettaboutit!! Playing with Paul at the Concert For New York was an unbelievable joy. He's a god, a legend, a knight and-oh yeah-a hell of a great guy because of how amazing the Beatles records are, The Fab Faux is the thing that give me the most round- the clock joy I love the challenge of trying to make it all happen on the stage.” Keyboardist Jack Petruzzelli is currently touring the UK with the sensational singer-song writer Rufus Wainright, and recently appeared on the UK’s award winning day time TV show Paul O’ Grady with Rufus Wainright (yes, you’ve been spotted under your hat jack). He’s also a member of the NY Ian Hunter’s Rant Band and works along side Joan Osburne, Curt Smith, Vanessa Paradis to list a few. Faux drummer Rich Pagano is another incredibly busy musician. Kept busy in his own recording studios *New Calcutta* Rich discovers new talent within the New York area. His co-production and performance on the latest Willie Nile release ‘Beautiful Wreck.’ earned him a Top 10 Album of the Year honours in both Billboard Magazine and the Village Voice. He’s best-known for the group ‘Marry Me Jane,’ and has also recorded or performed with Patti Smith, Robbie Robertson, Rosanne Cash, Ray Davies, Freedy Johnston, Joan Osborne, and Mott the Hoople legend Ian Hunter. Guitarist Frank Agnello is an accomplished songwriter; Frank has produced several projects from his home studio in addition to his own music, developing artist and TV commercials. He has toured as guitarist for a European production of the musical Hair; performed in the Self-Righteous Brothers with Jimmy V. and Al Kooper; and appeared in the The Beat Goes On series, as both a featured performer and band member - supporting such artists as Marshall Crenshaw, Mike Viola, Phoebe Snow, Willie Nile, Jill Sobule, Richard Lloyd, Ivan Julian, and Jackie DeShannon. Jimmy Vivino also sports a high musical profile as guitarist/arranger for the Max Weinberg Seven on Late Night with Conan O'Brien; and leads that group when Max tours with ‘The boss,’ Bruce Springsteen.
Since there sell out shows during Beatle Week and their performance/interview on the Howard Stern radio show back home in New York, the band received over 3,000 enquires, and hopefully this might mean a possible album on the arisen? Fab Will explains “You know, we do have an album that is in progress, but we are so danged busy with life, that we are very slow to put it together- it's coming!” Fab Frank continues:: “We have 9 songs musically completed and ready for vocals; when there'll be time to finish them is anyone's guess...”
The guys told me why they think The Beatles music has stood the test of time: Fab Will says:” I think the dynamic between John and Paul, two unique geniuses, coming from a tough working-class existence, dreaming of a better life, finding that music really turned them on, discovering the American artists that inspired them, being hungry at a young age to make that music their own, develop it into something else, lucking into George and Ringo and Brian Epstein and George Martin having the confidence to apply themselves and express something that so many people could relate all made for a finished product called Beatles Music that we are still enjoying listening to. Fab Frank continues: “The quality of the songs is incredibly strong and sturdy; the messages are universal and maintain their relevance and the consistency of their body of work is staggering.” Everyone has a favourite Beatle so which Beatle do the guys admire the most: Fab Will says: “It depends on the day. Today, it's Ringo. Why? because of his incredible contributions as a musician. There are people who ask if he's any good as a drummer. Chances are, they're comparing him with cats who are known for flashier styles of playing. All I can say is: Listen to what he does for the song!! Fab Frank says: “John Lennon, because he was the first Halloween costume I ever wore...” International Beatles Week is every Beatles fans dream, so what do The Fab Faux the festivals ‘headliners,’ think of the festival and how do they sell it to those who haven’t been: “ Fab Will Says: “ I always tell people that this is the most gratifying time and place to play Beatles music and if they wanted to come check it out I would say " buy your tickets early and rest up before hand and oh, you know that one sick day you have left? Try and reserve it to sleep off the experience after you get home!" I would also tell folks that if they decide to go to Liverpool, especially during Beatleweek, that they'll meet some of the nicest people on the planet while there!” Fab Frank says: “Hundreds of Beatles fanatics all together in the same place! Actually, all I think I'd need to say is that it's the place where one can walk into a music store and see musicians buying guitar strings dressed in Sgt. Pepper suits.”... And the highlights of the festival for the Faux are, Fab Will: “I love being surprised at how great some of the talent there is! My favourite bands from Beatle Week 2005, are The Beatbrothers!, Bob Bartey and Banned On The Run, The Overtures, a trio I heard in one of the bars was unbelievable. Fab Frank continues: “Highlights for me is seeing all the wonderful friends we’ve been fortunate to make on our visits there. The Overtures' 2 sets I saw were fantastic; they seemed really "in a zone" and everything worked together in harmony, even lighting at The Adelphi was perfect. It was like a 60's happening - visual, a little bit, to complement the wonderful music they played. I also dug The Prellies - great energy - that's what good rock and roll’s all about”….
If you were to describe a Fab Faux show how for a rock ‘n’ roll music book how would you word it:? Fab Will: “Chances are you'll have an amazing experience. You won't see people dressed as anyone else, but you will see passion like you don't usually see these days. You will see some of the finest musicians challenging themselves to bring you the best music we can play. As I have stated on stage many times, unless we are doing an album, no two shows are alike, so it’s always a surprise to see what come next!” Fab Franks says: “5 guys playing the parts from Beatles records, and singing the songs in our own voices. And for those who haven’t had the opportunity to see The Fab Faux live where can they come and see you: Fab Will says: “To keep up with that question accurately, please make sure you are on our mailing list. You can join it through the website www.thefabfaux.com or by writing to us at theboys@thefabfaux.com . What other ambitions do members of the fab faux have for the band: Fab Will says: “We have been together for over 7 years and we have just recently gotten a lot of exposure in the US to many people who didn't know of us before, due to Rolling Stone magazine and The Howard Stern radio show. There are many shows booked for the future and we will try to always keep it fresh by playing song lists we haven't done before. We always like to mix it up. One of my favourite things to do is pull out songs we haven't played in a long time, which keeps us on edge. I'd hate to see us start taking this material for granted by playing it too much. It's one of the things that makes a Fab Faux show exciting- we are as excited to play it as the audience is to hear it – FOR REAL! Fab Jack told us: “We shall carry on till the ride stops but for now I love the music and Jimmy, Will, Frank, Rich. Did I miss someone? Oh yea me Jack.”
I’d like to thank The Fab Faux for taking the time out of their hectic schedules to do this fascinating interview with us, and all that’s left to say is. If you live in the US, especially in the New York area, and the band are playing at a venue near you go! (book your tickets and be prepared to be amazed – I know you will be! Ed).
Not only do the The Fab Faux consist of some of the most talented musicians on the planet, to date the band includes the nicest guys you could wish to meet.
Jo Rishton
With The Fab Faux’s
Will Lee, Frank Agnello, Jack Petruzzelli.
Official Site: www.thefabfaux.com
This interview has been approved by The Fab Faux.
Please note all articles on this site are (C) to The Beat Goes On And On Fanzine and may not be used without permission.
To book tickets or to find out more about International Beatles Week visit here: www.cavern-liverpool.co.uk/beatleweek
Photos from Beatle Week 2005 can be viewed at: www.cavern-liverpool.co.uk/beatleweek/history/2005/BWscrap2005.htm