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AL
Al’s passion for music has kept him active, both in recording,
performing and writing. Al has been playing guitar for 30 years, gigging
for 23 of those years, and writing and recording for 20 years. He
loves to play all styles of music especially Funk, Rock, Blues and Pop.
Al has been a member of the Retreads for 15 years, where he plays
rhythm guitar and lead. He also sings lead and back up vocals.
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Al says that the reason why the band’s always fresh and full of energy
is because of the wide spectrum of songs covered and because of the
personality of the band. You’re always guaranteed a great time! The
experience and challenge of the diverse set list and innovative sounds
have been exciting and rewarding, and Al is looking forward to playing
many more gigs with the band in the future. By day, Al is a high school Physics teacher.
The Retreads
Live On!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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BARRY
Barry grew up in a
musical family. Both of his brothers, who were 5 and 10 years older,
played in bands. Barry formed his first band with a group of friends in
1971, called the Morning Blues Band. Despite the name of the group,
they played the popular rock of the day, including Beatles; Badfinger;
Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young; Led Zeplin, etc. Barry played bass
guitar in his first few bands, which included Franklyn Crane, Smokey
Rainbow, and Rockit. In 1975, Barry bought a Fender Rhodes and switched
to keyboards.
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He played with Urge, and Revolver from 1975-1976. In 1977, Barry
became primarily a studio musician and record producer, working out of
his Patchogue recording studio, Kno Studio. In 1978, Barry released a
45 single on Death Records called Baby Don’t Give Up with I
Just Want To Make You Happy. Both songs were written by Barry and
produced with his musical partner, Bill Kern. In 1979, Barry & Bill
started an independent record label called
Beat Bad Records. Barry co-produced, and played bass and or
keyboards on almost every release, including 2 singles
by
The
Badbeats, a group that Barry formed with Bill to record
unreleased Lennon/McCartney songs. Among the groups produced by Barry
were Jimi Lalumia & The Psychotic Frogs, Neck Tie Party, The New Youth
Front, and The Hand Grenades. Barry continued to record with Bill Kern
until his death in 2005. In 2006, Barry was asked by lead guitarist, Al Levik, if he would be interested in playing with the Retreads. The
timing was perfect, since Barry was looking for a new musical outlet.
Barry’s keyboards and vocals have added a new dimension to the Retreads
sound. By day, Barry is a high school Vocal Music and Theatre teacher. |
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CHRIS
Chris started playing drums at any early age and has played for a number of bands. While still in high school, he played in a band called Pegasus. Later, Chris met Al ( the band's lead guitarist ) while they were both working at Sears 25 years ago. Since then, Al and Chris have collaborated on writing and recording original music. He has also played in an originals band called Quixotic while he still played with the Retreads.
Chris believes that the group's chemistry is the main reason for it's longevity. Chris always looks forward to playing live and being around everyone in the band. He says, “ We have such a great group of people to work with. Everyone loves what they do, and you can see it when we play.” Chris believes that this is why the band has lasted this long and will continue to thrive. By day, Chris is a high school Math teacher.
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DEBBIE
Debbie has had a life long interest in singing. She began her
musical career as a vocalist back in the seventh grade at
Sayville Junior High when she decided to try out for chorus and
was chosen for a solo. She earned a degree in Music Performance
from Fredonia University, and then taught elementary vocal music
for many years in the William Floyd School District. Debbie is
currently the Assistant Choir Director for St. John Nepomucene
Church in Bohemia where she cantors at all weddings and funerals
for the parish.
Debbie was a vocalist in various wedding and club bands on Long
Island before joining the Retreads a number of years ago.
She then took an extended hiatus to raise her two children.
Debbie's return to the Retreads has allowed her another musical
outlet for her vocal talents. She is very happy to be back with
the band ( and the band is very pleased to have her
back! ).
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DENNIS
Dennis has
played the bass guitar in various musical venues ranging from jazz ensembles,
classic rock bands, oldie bands, wedding bands, to southern rock
bands. He now finds himself playing with a guitar player
( Al ) who he played with 30 years ago and ..... that old magic is still there! Good music, great people, makes for a great time.
Come check out the Retreads!
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JOE
Joe is a founding member of The Retreads and has been part of the band
since it first formed in the late 1980’s. Joe plays rhythm guitar and
sings both lead and background vocals (not at the same time!!) with the
band.
Having
taught both special education and sixth grade students for many years,
being part of a rock band has been a wonderful avenue for “switching
gears” from his teaching career. It has also allowed him to actively
enjoy his love of music and just have fun with a great group of people.
Long live
The Retreads! |
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