The Beat: James Blonde Band

E-Mail

Comments (0)

Text Size:

tool goes here

HOME BASE: Stockton

PLAYERS: Eric Westphal, lead vocals/bass; Joe Bettencourt, lead guitar; Peter Hackett, drums/vocals

SOUNDS LIKE: The power-pop trio has been influenced by Cheap Trick, The Cars and early Joe Jackson.

James Blonde Band, local band

Know a band that should be part of The Beat? The group should be from the greater Modesto area and play locally on a regular basis. Submit a photo and fill out a questionnaire. Let Lisa Millegan know about the band, who its members are and where they can be reached; lmillegan@modbee.com or call 578-2313.

BACKSTORY: The James Blonde Band was formed in Stockton in 1981 by lead vocalist and bassist Westphal, and its high-energy power pop soon formed a loyal following in the Central Valley. Its 1982 debut single, "Every Boy (Wants to Be with My Girl)," sold more than 10,000 copies. Over the years, the group has shared the stage with acts such as The Greg Kihn Band, 415, The Eric Martin Band, Y&T, Starship and others. The band has been performing and recording off and on ever since. The current lineup consists of Westphal, longtime drummer Hackett and Bay Area guitarist Joe Bettencourt, formerly of Sonic Orange and Rubber Side Down. The group's latest project, "Autumn Rhythm," was recorded and mixed by renowned engineer Justin Phelps (who has worked with Joe Satriani, Cake, Neville Brothers).

QUOTE ME: "We are really looking forward to playing in Modesto again. ... While many venues in the valley have gone away, my hat is off to Modesto for continuing to grow an impressive arts and music scene." — Peter Hackett, drummer

NEW MUSIC: The band has just finished tracking its CD "Autumn Rhythm," set for release in early spring 2009.

NEXT GIG: Show at 8:30 p.m. Saturday at the Fat Cat Music House & Lounge

FIND ONLINE: www.myspace.com/jamesblondeband

— Marijke Rowland