Biography

”Oh, My Guinness!!!” The title of The American Wake’s first original song sums up the desire of the acclaimed Irish music outfit to include the audience in their quest for fun and good times. Whether playing a full throttle instrumental, a cranked up Irish traditional or one of their signature originals, The American Wake performs with the kind of authenticity that draws natural comparisons with Great Big Sea, Flogging Molly and the Young Dubliners – all of whom have shared the stage with them. Based in the Orange County, Los Angeles area, The American Wake plays throughout Southern California and beyond to an ever-increasing number of loyal fans. From intimate pubs and outdoor festivals to headlining gigs at some of the Southland’s best venues, The American Wake delivers an aggressive, fast paced show that pulls enthusiastic audiences into the music.

On the band’s fourth CD, Tell no Tales, The American Wake presents strong original material and traditional Irish tunes adorned with Maritime elements. With lyrics written by Eric Ree and Frank LaBlanc and music crafted by all members of the band, the new CD captures the energy and spirit of the band's live show and showcases the strength of their songwriting and arranging of traditional tunes. Songs such as “The Drinking Jolly Roger” and “The Dorymen” exemplify the band’s ability to blend historical themes with a modern musical approach.

The band grew up in the punk rock scene of the 80s and early 90s. It is this attitude that is most noticeable in the band’s arrangements of traditional Irish tunes and original material. The five-piece band is fronted by Eric Ree, who has the ability to engage the crowd with his powerful voice, solid guitar playing and quirky sense of humor. Dueling instrumentalists, Frank LaBlanc on Mandolin and Robert Keysers on fiddle, bend the boundaries of traditional tunes by adding their own influences and style to the music. Bass player Chris Hatt and Dublin-born drummer Damien Murray make up the powerful rhythm section for the band. With a wealth of experience and the ability, the two push the envelope of rhythm as far as they can.

The five distinct elements make up a band that is developing their own rules for what constitutes an Irish band and creating a sound that is truly their own. The band has developed a fan base that is dedicated to the idea that the way The American Wake plays Irish music is the way Irish music should be played.

The American Wake are:
Eric Ree – Vocals, Rhythm Guitar
Frank LaBlanc – Mandolin, Mandola, Vocals
Chris Hatt – Bass Guitar, Vocals
Robert Keysers – Fiddle, Vocals
Damien Murray – Drums, Vocals