Music
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Urho THERE IS NO SHORTAGE OF TALENT IN THIS GROUP. The band’s complex mix of genres is made possible by one stellar combination: sheet music and improvisation. Many bands avoid sheet music all together and simply jam until it comes out sounding good. But guitarist and bassist Ben Ranson, a composer who went to the Berkeley School of Music in Boston, knows the importance of having it in writing. “Unless you can write it down, it’s very, very difficult to teach to a band,” Ranson said. “So in a sense, although it’s not that easy to read music, reading music is actually the easiest way to learn complicated material.” Pianist Nora Hyde is a staple in the local music scene. She brings years of experience to the table and an eye for reading music. “Nora is an astounding reader,” Ranson said of Hyde’s ability. “In fact in my entire life, I have only known a couple other people who can even approach her ability in terms of just being able to look at a piece of music and being able to read through it.” Drummer Jered Johnson’s unique dynamics and vocalist Alison Olson round out this perfect quartet. The band has recorded a demo and is preparing to gig. A lot.
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Nora Hyde – piano Jered Johnson – drums
Ben Ranson – guitar & bass Alison Olson – vocals