Jason Wiederin
(Vocals/Guitar)
Cody Westby
(Bass/Vocals)
Timothy DeYoung
(Drums)
Chelsea Dawn Anderson
(Cello)
Ian Jackson
(Guitar/Vocals)
Erin Durkee
(Violin)
Brian Craddock
(Keyboards)
Until now Capitol Jay has never released a full-length album, though the band has existed in some form or another for nearly ten years. It’s not for lack of material, time, or resources; it’s largely because the band members hold their music up to such a high standard. They’ve always felt that if a song they write is not something they would listen to as fans, then they have no business recording or performing it as a band. It’s that steadfast commitment to excellence that makes Capitol Jay clearly stand out from the myriad of competition in the Twin Cities music scene.
The release of their debut album, Strangers In My House, showcases the band at its most confident and creatively rich period ever. After a tumultuous year filled with line-up changes and musical soul searching, Capitol Jay has finally become the band that they were always meant to be. The group now includes Jason Wiederin (vox, guitar), Cody Westby (bass), Tim DeYoung (drums), Ian Jackson (guitar), Chelsea Anderson (cello), Erin Durkee (violin) and Brian Craddock (keys).
In addition to recording, Capitol Jay has been busy playing a variety of dates around the Twin Cities and beyond. They’ve performed their captivating and expertly crafted live show for capacity crowds at the legendary 7th Street Entry, Varsity Theater, Fusion Music Lounge, and many more. During a recent festival at Augsburg College (opening for Ben Lee), Capitol Jay met local indie heroes The Alarmists, who were so impressed by the band that they offered to produce Strangers In My House at their own private studio. Though the album was eventually finished elsewhere, the band still maintains a friendship with The Alarmists.
With the album now available, the band plans to tour extensively around the Midwest and beyond – as well as pursue collaborative projects with other local artists and friends. The members of Capitol Jay also volunteer their time with organizations like KFAI Radio, Diverse Emerging Music Organization, and are involved with organizing a collective of independent bands from around the Twin Cities.
Been meaning to come here and say that you guys have some great music here, guys. If you ever happen to find yourself in the dirrty south(east), more specifically Florida, I will be there to watch you play.
Nice job on Kare 11! Tim is clearly the sex symbol of the band!!! Sucks they cut you guys off half-way through "older now" but i sent them antrax for that, so don't worry.
Anways you guys should go tour the west coast and bring Tony back on your way through Cali
Wow. I can't believe it. The damn thing is done :) I have to say guys and dolls, this is one of the biggest accomplishments of my life. You are all so wonderful and were so great to work with. For a first album to record, this was an amazing experience. And I can only hope that subsequent projects go as well and turn out as awesome as this one. I hope you all enjoy the finished project. I know I do. I listened to it for the first time in one sitting on my drive to California and had goosebumps the whole time, so I would say that is a good sign. I wish you all the best on your upcoming shows. I would love to be home so I could see you guys rock some faces all across the Twin Cities. But I am content with having a completed Capitol Jay record in my collection. Thank you all for your kind words; I truly hope you enjoy Strangers in My House. Best of luck and fingers crossed that is only the beginning...
howdy you beautiful folks! new music sounds real fantastic as always. nate and i will be home in May for a few weeks. you and us play shows yes? windmills are at your service. yes please. always lovely.
Ladys and fellas...I present to you... Strangers In My House! Yes that's right, it's complete (well, as long as you all say so). Im happy with it, Marshall will hear it tomorrow, we need to meet up and listen/discuss. I'll be in touch through one form or another. Peace!
