Pone Zone: Round V
Q: Ryan, what is your favorite Beatles tune and why?
A: "Something" written by George Harrison is my favorite Beatles song. It makes me think of my better half Mary Welch Fox, which makes me smile! Also, Paul McCartney's bass work is outstanding on this piece.
Trevor Wozny, Richmond VA
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Q: Two part question. I my self am a Bass player n play a 5 string and you along with many others influenced me so who influenced pony to pick up the bass? And what is your favorite song to play live? After 20 shows with you guys im still always amazed how they get better and better thanks for keepin it real!
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A: Brendan Bayliss actually inspired me to play bass. I had lent him my Les Paul and Peavey amp and decided someon needed to hold down the low end. We then started a power trio shortly thereafter. From there I discovered an array of bassists I had never heard of before ranging from James Jamerson to Jaco Pastorius. However, growing up I listened to a lot of Guns 'N' Roses, Pantera, Led Zeppelin, Pearl Jam, and Nirvana. I do not have a favorite song to play live. I definitely enjoy some more than others but no favorites as of now.
Mike H, Marseilles Illinois
Q: Stasik, I have a question from a musician's standpoint. I notice how Umphrey's always has a very "rehearsed" sound to their jams. I actually play in a band and we are very capable of tight, experimental jamming. My question is if you have any advice about incorporating jams into a live set, to keep the performance fresh and interesting. When we practice in our rehearsal space we come up with some really sick improv, but not in the context of a song. When we play live I always feel a little rushed and cant really lock in to a good Improv other than extended solos. Again we are freshmen in college, so these techniques may just develop with time and experience. I'm not asking you to share any band secrets, just any advice you can give me and the guys to really display our talent at it's fullest. Thanks a lot.
A: You sia dit yourself my friend, these techniques will develop with time and experience. We have no secrets, but after time you start to pick up on your fellow musician's instincts the same way Peyton Manning had such great timing with Marvin Harrison all those years. Time will tell.
Nick, Chicago, IL
Q: Hey Ryan,I'm, a big fan from Pittsburgh. I have traveled a lot to see you guys around the eastern-half of the country, so after this second show at Mr.Smalls I need to know.Do the fans randomly start cheering for the local football team in the middle of the show anywhere else?
A: No sir they do not, but their team doesn't have six super bowl rings either!
Anonymous Steelers Fan
| Q: Dear Pony, When can we expect to see the rockin' mullet again? |
A: My fiance has been asking me the same question. The mullet had to be put to rest. It was time. However, my rattail is alive and healthy and will be sticking around for quite some time. Ridin' dirty!
Your friend, John Roark
Q: You guys play (and nail) a lot of covers. What are some of your favorite covers to play based on the bass parts alone? If you got to chose 5 songs for the band to cover, what would they be?
ps - hoping Booth Love, The Linear and The Floor make it onto the new EP's!
A: As far as bass parts for covers, I enjoy playing YYZ by Rush and Graceland by Paul Simon.If I could choose 5 songs in no particular order for us to cover I would choose the following: 1. Roundabout by Yes 2. 46 and 2 by Tool 3. Dance of Eternity by Dream Theatre 4. Peg by Steely Dan 5. Something by The Beatles
Eric Saltes
Q: Stasik, my man, what is the key to the perfect show outfit, you always got the heady diggs goin on.
A: John, my man! Well first you need some breathable briefs so your boys get air. Next a hat. One must block the assault of strobes and lights that pierce your eyeballs throughout the night. Third, comfy shoes!!! Standing on your feet all night gets tiring. Then just make sure they all flow well together. I do this by listening to what my lady tells me looks good.
John from Chicago, IL, a.k.a the greatest city ever
Thank ya'll for your questions and comments. Keep them coming (theponezone@gmail.com) and I'll see you next month for PoneZone VI.