Speak Easy
Seattle, WA | Established. Jan 01, 2015 | SELF
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Speak Easy EP 2015
This release came earlier this month from a lot of great East Michigan talent, and even in just 3 tracks the group shows it can write some solid songs and showcase some great musicianship. I know bassist Joe Vasquez and guitarist Olin Clark from recent jazz performances, both proving to be on point as players. Combine their talents with the solid musicianship of Connor Ralph (guitar, vocals), Spencer Ralph (drums, vocals) Piere Charles (keys), Ryan McMahon (Percussion), and additional bass work with ukulele from Nathan Walker, you have a great group to listen to on this release.
Each track grooves nicely, with some catchy songwriting that reminds me of Red Hot Chili Peppers as much as it stands apart from other acts in the Michigan scene. They’re definitely going to do some great things, so keep an eye out for the next time they are in your city! - Dutcher Snedeker
Discography
Speak Easy EP, Copyright 2015
1) Ain't No Rest
2) Back to Me
3) Take Cover
Tree Songs For You, Copyright 2016
1) Green Waves
2) Got What You Want
3) Wanderlust
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Bio
Hailing from the middle of Michigan, Speak Easy, has taken their fresh reggae-rock sound to Seattle. Mixing melodies and riddim's of early roots reggae and modern funk rock, Speak Easy's groovy sound is bound to bring high energy and good vibes to whatever stage they play.
The members of Speak Easy all attended Michigan State University's College of Music, where they developed and fostered deep friendships over a mutual love for music and performance. At MSU, they honed their skills under some of the nation's most notable classical and jazz professors, and spent their time performing with local and national acts. However, it wasn't until post-graduation that Speak Easy came into fruition. Now, after dedicating their lives to their individual crafts, Speak Easy is ready to come together to share one musical vision.
Despite the nature of show business, speakin' it easy is more than just a name for the members of Speak Easy, it is a way of life. Although the loudest individual voice in a crowd is always heard, the softer spoken opinions of the masses often go unnoticed. Speak Easy strives for their music to be a voice for the voiceless in our world, not to mention a nonstop, funky-reggae party! So sit back, relax, and Speak Easy.
Connor Ralph has been performing as a professional singer for over a decade in a wide variety of genres and settings. He has performed with the MSU Accafellas, studied privately with former Metroploitan Opera tenor and MSU Vocal Arts Chair Richard Fracker, and has toured with choirs and original bands since 2008. Connor believes in the power of music and hopes to share that message with all of his listeners.
Joe Vasquez has been performing as a professional bassist since 2010 with various artists across the mid west. He believes in his music and is always ready to go when an opportunity presents it's self.
Jordan Otto brings a very eclectic vibe to the percussion section of Speak Easy. Jordan has traveled all around the globe performing in all kinds of musical settings. He specializes in sharing his musical knowledge as well as learning from other musical cultures, making him lethal behind a drum kit.
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