Raymond Yates (guitar, vocals), Matt Ogden (lead guitar), Kim Schultz (backing vocals), Simon Schmitt (drums and percussion), and Eric Ebbesen (bass).
Influences
Raymond has around 1000 CDs, and it seems that each one of them has influenced one song or another. Comparisons range from James Taylor, to Counting Crows, to early Radiohead, to Postal Service, to Bill Withers. Pretty cool.
Here are some pictures from our recent "Gates of Sun and Shadow" CD release show at the Cedar Cultural Center. Enjoy!
Also check out a short video documenting some of our experiences recording the new album, "Gates of Sun and Shadow", at Pachyderm Studio:
Sounds Like
See "Influences" above, and tell us what you think.
The Raymond Yates Band’s music is best described as “Americana”. Familiar yet original and fresh, they create something new using elements from the wide range of music that thrives in this country. With powerful performances, fine musicianship, and deft lyrical and musical arrangements, their music leaves lasting impressions on audiences of all ages and musical tastes. You’ll feel the soul of jazz, the frenzy of rock, the introspection of folk, the earthiness of blues, the drive of R&B, with every song a new landscape for listeners to explore. Dramatic, comedic, powerful, and entertaining, their concerts are a live experience that stands apart from most others.
Over his 15 year musical campaign, Raymond has traveled thousands of miles to hundreds of venues, and his songs have received radio play in North & South America and Europe. Outside of the RYB, Raymond has performed with "Prairie Home Companion" favorites Pat Donohue and Peter Ostroushko, as well as Bill Staines, Dean Magraw, Tim Sparks, and Peter Mayer.
For bookings, info, or to purchase RYB CDs or t-shirts, contact Raymond at raybait@juno.com.
"As a songwriter, Yates excels at telling stories, often with a touch of drama, whether they're about fleeting love, locked-away dreams, lost friends, or taking a chance on success…. A strong vocalist, Yates can lead the charge on stirring, folk-rock lopes like "You Will Find Me" and "There And Back Again," as well as etch a gentle ballad such as the James Taylor-like "Sing for the Workman." Meanwhile, Yates's five-piece band… nicely fleshes out the tunes with touches of R&B and blues.” -- Rick Mason, City Pages “A-List” Review (MN)
“(Their) well-crafted folk-rock album "Gates of Sun and Shadow" could get lucky and sneak onto some Cities 97-style formats - the pining ballad "Fare Thee Well" sounds a bit like early Jackson Browne.” -- Tom Surowicz, Minneapolis Star/Tribune “Big Gigs” Listing
“A group of tremendous depth and power, the Raymond Yates Band brings their original music to audiences with astonishing dynamic range. From gentle, heart-felt ballads to roof-blowing rockers, Raymond delivers intelligent, poignant, and playful lyrics with a musicality and sincerity that is the very soul of music. And they usually have a surprise or two up their sleeves as well.” -- Kieselhorst Concert Series
hey its good to finally have ui as a friend lol. u should totally put the rain song up. er sumthin make a cd witht that song on it, that would be sweet. later dustin
So, ugh. I figured out, I think, how to play the "effin rain song". It would be totally bitchin' if you confirmed what I have been playing by sending me the "chords" and lyrics.
I've been singing the song like non-stop. Either people have been oober excited to hear it and love it a lot, or are now becoming irritated with it. . .due to over play. Lol.
Yeah. Seriously, soon enough, you will be sweeping the nation slash just Chadron. . .for now.
I hope to see you soon, as well. You should add my friend Dustin. He played with me that night. He's my number one so it's not too difficult to accomplish. Tee hee.
Okay. I will talk to you at another time. =) *Hettie*
A late summer greeting from Sweden! I have had a great summer with nine Chuck Berry shows and a lot of other happy things. Hope your days turn on well and you have a great time!
thanks for adding me as well! i was looking for music thru cloud cult's myspace friends and i liked your music and oddly enough i just looked thru your pics and im friends with simon from bethany-just talked to him last night too! small world haha he didnt even tell me about it! anywho i hope to get to see ya play sometime!
sorry i didn't make the big show! i had 4 students at the battle of the bands at the 7th street and i had to hang down there. sorry.keep me informed of your giggage. hope it went well!
Your show last night was such a wonderful experience. I am very glad to have been able to be there. Your music is a direct reflection of all the good in you and that is a rare thing.
