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speer

Austin, TX-based pop/rock outfit Speer are primarily the work of their namesake and singer/songwriter, James Speer. Citing influence from the likes of Peter Gabriel, Coldplay, and Dave Matthews, Speer revel in melodic and passionate piano-driven rock tunes that evoke visions of other singer/songwriters like Ben Folds, John Mayer, and Marc Cohn. Moving to Austin around 1992, pianist frontman James performed over time with various local favorites, including Bob Schneider, the Scabs, Monte Montgomery, Overlord, and Vallejo, as well as serving as the house piano man at the local comedy theater, Esther's Follies. He began the first incarnation of the band Speer circa 1997, playing around town for a few years before regrouping with a new set of musicians, so as to grow to what he considered the band's full potential. Entering the studio in 2002 to begin recording their debut full-length, Speer collaborated with longtime Austin producer Carl Theil. Sixes & Sevens appeared in mid-2003 and featured a backing band of guitarists Scott Clark and Mike Ingalls, drummer Chris Leonard, and bassist Mike Cullen. Speer played the CMJ Festival in N.Y.C. that fall, as well as performing well-received showcases at Austin's own South by Southwest in 2004 and 2006. ~ Corey Apar, Rovi

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