The Dropa Stone Official Band Website!
PRESS
CD Release Show for "Starry Messenger," the new album from The Dropa Stone @ HOUSE OF BLUES Orlando March16!
E-mail thedropastone@gmail.com to order FREE tickets!
PRESS
by: Kat Coffin - Examiner.com
Starry Messenger, the new CD from local Orlando band The Dropa Stone is art. The band’s complex musical arrangements incorporate a variety of musical influences into their music, taking the music beyond just an aural experience for listeners.The band members pride themselves on their musical diversity, and the nine Groove Rock based songs on Starry Messenger reflect that, without taking the music so far off the grid that it would only appeal to a select number of music fans.
For the most part, the multi-layered songs on this CD can be classified as Psychedelic/Neo-Progressive Rock music with a definite classic feel, like the opening songs “Vectors” and “Red Cloud.” The song “Other Worlds Than These” takes a more modern Alternative course, but finishes with a mixed Alternative/Progressive jam. The shimmering “Salsa Verde” and steady-beating “Kinski’s Spiral” also finish with lavishly textured jams.
Then, just as the listener feels confident that they have the band’s sound pegged, along comes “Catfish Blues,” a flat out Blues song, as terrific as it is surprising in its appearance. The CD closes with the sweeping, modern Rock “Sandcastles,” that combines bits of various elements such as distorted vocals, chunky guitars, and synthesizer.
While most bands that incorporate such a variety of diverse sounds into their music will get bogged down under the weight, the members of The Dropa Stone embrace the versatility and thrive, creating their unique sound and using it to their advantage. Starry Messenger will make a terrific addition to anyone’s CD collection.
Starry Messenger was produced by the band and Justin Beckler, an Orlando based singer/songwriter/musician/producer who is garnering quite a name for himself as a producer with several high quality/top rated CDs released under his tutelage, including this one.
While awaiting the CD release, music fans can check out the band on their official site, Reverbnation, Facebook page, You Tube channel, and Twitter feed.
The Dropa Stone’s next show is this Saturday, February 11 at The Hard Rock Orlando
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** The Dropa Stone Tour Coming to North Carolina on Eve of Album Release
Charlotte, NC; Orlando, FL PR News Wire - January 17, 2012
The Dropa Stone have announced a set of tour dates as the band readies their forthcoming new album "Starry Messenger" for release. They are scheduled to perform in Charlotte, NC at Smokey Joes on Friday, February 17th, as well as Saturday, February 18 at The One Stop in Asheville.
Consisting of Jon Meyers (Vocals/Guitar), Justin Henry (Lead Guitar), Joe Lederman (Drums) and Will Richey (Bass), The Dropa Stone is often described as a groovy fusion of alternative rock with rhythm and blues. They are known for their powerful live performances and contagious original music which showcase their distinctive blend of rock, funk, blues and reggae. The group displays an uncanny ability to meld together infectious grooves, catchy vocals and jam based instrumentation.
"North Carolina is one of the most beautiful places we have visited and we are excited for the new record to be the catalyst that brings us back there," guitarist Henry said.
The Charlotte show is presented by Bryan Dowling at SJD Presents. They provide management, promotions and booking throughout the United States. The show at Smokey Joes will feature the band performing a special double set that will include selections from their upcoming album and previous material. They also plan on including blues standards, as well as their own interpretations of Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd classics.
Known for bringing some of the most diverse and original acts through Asheville, The One Stop will be hosting The Dropa Stone on Saturday, February 18th. They will be sharing the stage alongside local favorites, The StereoFidelics.
Fans can visit the official band web site and listen to a sneak peak of the album as they enter the world of The Dropa Stone. Check back for updates on how to order or download Starry Messenger digitally when the release date is announced.
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“The band's debut represents a dynamic new approach to LP Rock, bucking the trend of drive through Singles that has been so prevalent as of late”, notes Trace. “Bring your digital recorders to the show as the live concerts promise to deliver on technique and performance." - Yahoo Music News April 2011
"A groove apart." - The Reader
“Exploring a groovalicious new terrain." – New Times
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ProgSnobs.com October 17, 2011
By: Eric Umanski
"Known for bringing in top notch music and many independent bands on the rise, Bardot has become one of the more popular music venues in Miami. I had the pleasure of coming out to see The Dropa Stone perform at Bardot Miami on Thursday September 22nd. Bardot’s long room decor with unique artwork, stylish couches and a great sound system was a great environment to see the band.
One can best describe The Dropa Stone as having a a solid experimental rock foundation, while sprinkling in progressive grooves with seeds of blues, reggae and funk. I was immediately struck with the strong musicianship and passion the band performs with. The band rolled through strong originals and even performed a funky version of Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” which got the crowd dancing. The vocal and guitar interplay between Jon Meyers (vocals & guitar) and Justin Henry (guitar) was a breath of fresh air to watch, while the rhythm section Will Richey (bass) and Joe Lederman (drums) held it together with some really tight grooves. The set showcased their original music with some spirited jams. The crowd loved every minute of it and there is anticipation for their next Miami show.
The band has a new album coming soon and fans can check out some new music at their web site: www.TheDropaStone.com."
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*YAHOO MUSIC NEWS - May 21, 2011
The Dropa Stone are about to introduce the music world to the rebirth of originality with the release of a new track “We’re All Space Cadets” from their upcoming album, "A Starry Messenger." The song will be bundled with another track, “Salsa Verde” which will be available soon. In conjunction with Masterlab (The Rolling Stones, NIN, Prince), the songs are available for download on iTunes, Amazon and other digital media outlets the band has announced on their official web site, http://www.TheDropaStone.com.
Consisting of Jon Meyers (Vocals/Guitar), Justin Henry (Lead Guitar), Joe Lederman (Drums) and Will Richey (Bass), The Dropa Stone is known for their explosive live performances and progressive leaning original music which showcases their distinctive blend of rock, funk, blues and reggae. Mining a wealth of influences from Led Zeppelin to Incubus, they display an uncanny ability to meld together contagious melodies, catchy vocals and jam based instrumentation.
Both tracks were recorded earlier this year in Orlando, FL with award-winning producer Justin Beckler, who has been working with the band on the new music. The tracks are being mastered by Trace of Masterlab.com, and with over 105 million R.I.A.A. Certified sales, the facilities are among the world's most progressive media mastering operations.
“The band's debut represents a dynamic new approach to LP Rock, bucking the trend of drive through Singles that has been so prevalent as of late”, notes Trace. “Bring your digital recorders to the show as the live concerts promise to deliver on technique and performance."
The Dropa Stone plans to release the full album later this summer with a heavy national touring and promotional schedule to follow in the fall. Fans can visit the official band website and listen to “We’re All Space Cadets” as it streams while they enter the world of The Dropa Stone.
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* NME MAGAZINE in the U.K. FEATURES THE DROPA STONE
By: NME Music
NME, the popular national music magazine from the United Kingdom (U.K.) featured a live version on their website of The Dropa Stone performing their own "Catfish Blues Medley." The band surprised fans by playing this powerful tribute as a special tribute to the legendary blues guitarist, Muddy Waters. The Dropa Stone frequently sites those that have inspired them by choosing select songs to pay tribute at their concerts. To view this video, click HERE!
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* BILLBOARD & YAHOO NEWS
By: Billboard/Yahoo Music News
"Bands such as The Dropa Stone have show dates lining up at venues such as the Viper Room (www.viperroom.com) and the Whisky a Go Go (www.whiskyagogo.com) in Los Angeles, CA. The band has a strong music foundation and has been given the thumbs up by music advisers who have numerous Grammy Awards to Think-Stars. The band will also finish their single for major-radio and is looking to land a sound track deal with the launch of their new album.
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* MIAMI NEW TIMES MAGAZINE
By: Crossfade
"Playing live at the Transit Lounge will be The Dropa Stone. Made up of Jon Meyers on vocals/guitar, Will Richey on bass, Joe Lederman on drums and Justin Henry on guitar, perhaps the best description of Dropa would be virtuoso rock.
We're not talking anything as technically insane as Dream Theater here, but these dudes can seriously shred (and some will say theirs is a more melodically --inclined sound). Take those chops and add a distinct notoriety for tearing it up live, and that sounds like a damn good show."
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* VIPER ROOM REVIEW
Music News: Los Angeles, Hollywood, CA.
By: Anthony Kasaben
Rounding out their west coast swing, The Dropa Stone performed at the historic Viper Room in West Hollywood, CA this past Monday night. Also performing on the bill was legendary blues guitarist and Universal Records producer, Peter Black and Red Earth Blue. Hosted by promoter Robin Yip, The Dropa Stone fired through a blistering 60 minute set which showcased the group’s intense and unique sound.
From heavy pounding numbers to some mighty psychedelic jamming, they demonstrated versatility, dynamics and a keen sense for improvisation during songs. The crowd was indeed left “California dreaming." Look for more west coast dates to be announced in the not too distant future from The Dropa Stone.
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* ORLANDO WEEKLY
By: Jason Ferguson
What You’re Doing Tonight: "THE MOUNTAIN DEW Tour finals are going on this weekend in Orlando, FL at the Amway Arena. Come out to the city's premier live venue for music, THE SOCIAL, for the tour kick-off party with psychadelic rock band, THE DROPA STONE. Dew Tour prizes and special ticket offers will be given away. This is the band's last show prior to gearing up for a west coast swing in Los Angeles. You won’t want to miss this!"
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* THE DROPA STONE "WAR/NO MORE TROUBLE" PERFORMANCE FEATURED ON OFFICIAL BOB MARLEY PAGE
A notable live performance of "War/No More Trouble" by The Dropa Stone was featured on the Bob Marley Official Facebook Page today July 2, 2010. Joined onstage by guest guitarist Jon Shaffer, the performance marked an impressive tribute to the Marley classic. Fusing in their own brew of twists and turns, the track has a "spacey" twist, combining rock and reggae blends. Already receiving over 26,000 views, the video has achieved positive reviews by fans.
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* JOE LEDERMAN OF THE DROPA STONE SITS IN WITH ALBERT CASTILIGA
Music Binds Us All - Fort Lauderdale, FL
By: Alexi Stevensen
On Saturday November 28th, 2009, fans and music lovers at Maguires Hill 16, a prominent blues club in Fort Lauderdale, FL were treated to a one of a kind performance. Famed blues virtuoso guitarist ALBERT CASTIGLIA was joined onstage by drummer Joe Lederman of THE DROPA STONE for an inspiring set.
Nationally acclaimed and regarded as one of the finest blues guitarists, Albert Castiglia was named “Best Blues Guitarist” by New Times Magazine in 1997 and is a 2009 BLUES MUSIC AWARDS SONG OF THE YEAR NOMINEE. Castiglia shows an expressiveness and originality in approach that identifies him as an emerging star within contemporary blues circles,” said Nashville’s City Paper.
The Dropa Stone’s Lederman fused crisply with the Castiglia band and even took off on an impressive drum solo which demonstrated his rock and jazz influences. Lederman just returned from a tour of the west coast where his band, The Dropa Stone performed at the renowned VIPER ROOM in Hollywood, CA. The trio of Castiglia, Lederman and powerhouse bassist AJ Kelly then took off on a 30 minute encore that saw multiple improvised jams and rocking interpretations of Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” and the Grateful Dead’s “Fire on the Mountain.”
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* The Dropa Stone On TV!
SUN SPORTS, FOX Sports Net & UCF Athletics
OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE:
UCF SportsKnight, a 30-minute television program, will air ever Tuesday at 5 p.m. on Sun Sports and Fox Sports Nets. Jeff Sharon, a University of Central Florida graduate, hosts the weekly show that looks into UCF Athletics. Each week, UCF SportsKnight airs highlights from the past week in UCF Athletics, including the SportsKnight plays of the week.
This week's show will feature music from rock and funk quartet, THE DROPA STONE, who recently completed their debut E.P. The track, "PATTERN NATION" is featured in the episode.
UCF Athletics, Real Radio and Axis Magazine are proud to support local area music. Additional access to local artists can be found by visiting axismag. com and realrock1011. com. Archived episodes of the program are also available on UCFAthletics. com and ucftv. ucf. edu.
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* The Dropa Stone - Vanity CD Review
Connections Magazine
The Dropa Stone
CD Release: June 14th, 2008
Rating: 4 Stars
By: Jaime Eschelman
"With echo-ey riffs and an eclectic feel, The Dropa Stone's self titled six song E.P. distances itself from the cookie cutter clones of modern rock. In fact, this is one of those bands that is difficult to place in one particular genre. Fusing and "jamming" a variety of musical styles, The Dropa Stone writes and performs in such a way that damns the cliches. The songs here are instrumentally and vocally first rate, bringing a fresh new sound to a stale rock environment. The production, mix and mastering, done by Justin Thomas of Gridlock Studios, is ahead of the class.
Definitely deserving of your ears!"
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* THE DROPA STONE 4th of July Festival Review
By: Allison Gore
"This past Saturday, THE DROPA STONE performed and headlined a 4th of July Festival in Tampa, Florida. Sponsored by Budweiser, TGI Fridays and Make a Wish Foundation, the day was filled with live music, spinning DJ’s, prize raffles and all sorts of surprises. Large crowds, vendors and staff were treated by the groovy rock quartet, whose virtoustic chops, contagious rythms and improvised jams had the crowd dancing for the full hour and 1/2 set.
The Dropa Stone relied on front man Jon Meyers’ powerful vocals and guitar work. The band to display a keen sense of musical intellect, going from heavy rock, to blues, to jazz, to reggae and even performing a snippet of a classic Led Zeppelin tune, “How Many More Times.” This medium of dynamics and musical diversity is greatly missed in the current rock scene.
After speaking to the band backstage, it was evident that the bands chemistry isn’t limited to their live performance. “Playing outdoors is always fun, especially when you get to watch the sun set as you play,” said singer/guitarist Jon Meyers.
During the final song, a piece titled “Vectors,” the band went into a ferocious other worldly conclusion which took everyone by surprise. Utilizing avant-garde techniques with percussion and effects pedals, they mimicked sounds one would hear during an intense fireworks display." It was most definitely a July 4th to remember!
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* Indie-Music.com -- THE DROPA STONE E.P.
Editors pick – The Dropa Stone’s debut self titled E.P.
"Spacey, powerful and melodic, be sure to check out this new and coming band when they come to your town! (Indie-Music.com is one of the top Independent music providers and supporters with artists ranging from the United States to Australia.)
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