Gabriel Strange is the drummer for Honeytribe, a blues rock band, which Devon Allman (Greg Allman’s son) and George Potsos are the other 2 members that make up the trio. The band as a whole is so strong but each musician has their own strengths which make their sound so awesome! The band was formed in St. Louis, MO in 1999 but took some time off in 2001 and then started the band back up in 2005. The latest album is called Space Age Blues which was released in 2010. I have been able to see the band twice at the Rathskeller in Indianapolis, IN, and I couldn’t resist grabbing an interview since I met the band. I would definitely recommend seeing them. They will not disappoint!
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INTERVIEW WITH GABRIEL STRANGE, DRUMMER “HONEYTRIBE”
Q: First of all, tell me where you were born (or grew up at) and at what age did you pick up your first drum sticks.
A: I was born in St. Louis, MO. My mom’s side of the family was very musical. I got my first drum set at the age of 3.
Q: What kind of childhood did you have? Do you come from a big family and was someone a big influence on you growing up?
A: I had a good childhood. I have one brother, two step brothers and a step sister. All of them lived with my mom. I was by myself, at my dads.. That is until my senior year when my brother moved in with us.
Q: Speaking of instruments, how many do you play? Did you take music lessons?
A: I play drums, guitar and sing…never really took a lesson, but anytime you have the chance to watch someone else play, it’s like a free lesson. You can learn something from anyone!
Q: What was your first performance in a band or solo? Did you ever do the battle of the bands?
A: I grew up playing drums in church, if you want to call that performing. I was a Junior in high school when I played my first rock ‘n roll show. I never played a battle of the bands, it wasn’t my thing. Music has never been a contest of competition to me.
Q: What is your influence in your music & do you write songs?
A: Life influences me! All aspects of it! The good, the bad, and the brutal honesty life can throw at you. I do write. I’m in the process of writing my first solo album “Isn’t that Strange”.
Q: What is the weirdest thing that has happened on the road with your current band HONEYTRIBE – which includes Devon Allman & George Potsos?
A: The weirdest thing, that’s going to be hard to narrow down. I’ve seen it all from blue grass bands playing Motorhead, to showing up for sound check, and the club has stripper poles built in to the stage. We live in a strange world!
Q: Take me through a typical day with Gabe.
A: On the road we wake up, usually around noon, drive, drive, and drive some more! After a couple stops at shitty fast food joints, and truck stops, we arrive at sound check. We load in, set up, and hope to get to our hotel for a couple hours of R&R; that is if we have hotels that night.. or if they’re not 40 miles from the venue. Showtime, the best part of the day! We do our thing, then tear it all down and pack it up..at the same time, trying to sell c.d.’s and t-shirts, and maybe signing a couple for fans. Then it’s off to the hotel, getting into bed usually around 2:30 AM….If I’m at home and not on tour, life is simple. I’m on the phone all day trying to promote my solo project, or playing my guitar!
Q: What is the most exciting concert or venue you have ever played at?
A: I got to sit in and play a song with the Allman Brothers at the Beacon Theater in early 2011. It was amazing! I was on stage with Rock Royalty!
Q: I have been lucky enough to see Honeytribe twice in Indy! You have been touring for most of the spring & summer — what do you plan to do after you are done with this part of the tour? Anything new going on for you?
A: I have actually made the very tough decision to part with Honeytribe. We all still remain close friends, but I feel it’s time for me to focus on my solo career. I’m not quitting, just switchin gears! I am so grateful for years with Honeytribe! We’ve had a lot of fun! They will continue to do what they do all over the world. I actually met my replacement last night… He’s a good guy and a great drummer! He’ll fit right in! As for me, I’m working with promoters and agents…I plan to be touring the U.S. opening solo acoustic for National acts, and possibly over seas for the military.
Q: Where can your fans find you online – are you on Facebook or Myspace?
A: I’m easy to find I’m on Facebook, and September 1st you will be able to find me at www.gabrielstrange.com