Justin Fobes: News
Justin Fobes Band - July 18, 2007
Hi all,
Justin Fobes here, just wanting to inform you of my new band project. If you've checked out my Calendar lately, you'll see I'm moving into some larger venues, this should be fun!
Corey Johnson -- Bass, Vocals
Cory Johnson was born in Wurzburg, Germany. The influences on his musical life are such greats as; Jaco Pastorius, Stanley Clarke, Steve Harris and Ray Brown. Corey has played with the likes of Marcel Evans - lead singer of "The Original Drifters", Jabo Starks - Drummer for James Brown and B.B. King. He is currently playing with Quintessence, Urban Jazz Quartet, Los Gatos, and Sean Worrell and Friends. He has also opened for Wayman Tisdale, Taylor Dane, Kem Band and Rochelle Farrell, and even Chaka Khan. He has a B.A. Degree in Computer Network Technology.
Roland Cobbs -- Alto, Tenor, and Soprano Sax, Ewi Wind Controller, Vocals
Roland Cobbs, professionally known as Hot Sax, began his playing career at the age of 13, his instrument of choice was and still is the Saxaphone. After graduating from high school, Roland joined the United States Army Band where he was influenced by the Big Band Sound and Be Bop. After being noticed by his peers as a learned Musician, Roland began mastering the Saxaphone. Paying special attention to the sax masters, Roland began to "per-fect" his own style, incorporating the many differing styles of greats such as, Grover Washington, Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, Dexter Gordon, Wilton Felton, and Stanley Turntine. From thence comes the sound profoundly known as Hot Sax.
After leaving the United States Army, Roland moved to Dallas, Texas and began working at a 50-60 club with a band called Happy Days backing up artists from the fifties and sixties eras including the Platters, The Dixie Cups, Frankie Ford, Lenny Welch, The Crickets, and Brian Hyland. In 1999 Roland moved back to Mobile, and steady gigged the Mississippi Gulf Coast Casinos, all the while honing his craft. Television came calling and Roland was asked to provide music for The Creative Cook, a weekly television show featuring two talented people, a gourmet chef and an accomplished and creative musician, Roland Cobbs --"Hot Sax".
Steven Jacobs -- Drums, Vocals
Having taken up the drums in eighth grade, Steven was self taught through his high school and early college years playing in local rock, r&b, and funk bands. After marrying, his interests gravitated to jazz and the music of New Orleans where his wife’s family resided. He began working toward a music degree at the University of South Alabama and studied privately with Harrell Bosarge in Mississippi and Johnny Vidacovich in New Orleans. Steven has been a clinician with the Jim Widner Big Band Jazz Camps and has continued to study and work as a free lance drummer based in Mobile. His musical influences include Astral Project, The Meters (both Original and Funky), and anything on which Steve Gadd has played.
Justin Fobes -- Songwriting, Guitar, Vocals
If you are looking for someone with the raw talent, energy, and charisma to command even the toughest crowd, then you are looking for Justin Fobes. Hailing from Mobile, Alabama, Justin has been playing guitar since he was 10 years old. While other kids were learning the popular songs of the day, Justin was already crafting his own. By the age of 15, he had written over 30 songs, and by 18, he was playing at restaurants and events all along the Gulf Coast. After seven years of touring the southeastern United States opening for such acts as the Counting Crows, Live, and Don Henley, performing up to 307 shows a year! Justin Fobes now resides in Mobile, AL playing several nights a week, at the many attractions there. While he's not busy with his duties as a Rockstar, Justin usually divides his time working on his recording projects and quality family time. To put a label on his music would be unfair. He is a singer, songwriter, and guitarist who blends folk with rock and blues with pop. To date, Justin has released three albums and is currently working on a fourth project, due to be released in 2007. He has written, or co-written, over a hundred songs. His impressive guitar playing and powerful vocals merge to create a truly unique sound that McDaniel Wyatt of Skyscraper Magazine said "[has] echoes of Jeff Buckley's ambience, Rufus Wainwright's sincerity, and Peter Yorn's powerful delivery". Offering uniquely crafted songs that blend the sounds of folk, rock, blues and pop, Justin Fobes is truly an original.
Justin Fobes here, just wanting to inform you of my new band project. If you've checked out my Calendar lately, you'll see I'm moving into some larger venues, this should be fun!
Corey Johnson -- Bass, Vocals
Cory Johnson was born in Wurzburg, Germany. The influences on his musical life are such greats as; Jaco Pastorius, Stanley Clarke, Steve Harris and Ray Brown. Corey has played with the likes of Marcel Evans - lead singer of "The Original Drifters", Jabo Starks - Drummer for James Brown and B.B. King. He is currently playing with Quintessence, Urban Jazz Quartet, Los Gatos, and Sean Worrell and Friends. He has also opened for Wayman Tisdale, Taylor Dane, Kem Band and Rochelle Farrell, and even Chaka Khan. He has a B.A. Degree in Computer Network Technology.
Roland Cobbs -- Alto, Tenor, and Soprano Sax, Ewi Wind Controller, Vocals
Roland Cobbs, professionally known as Hot Sax, began his playing career at the age of 13, his instrument of choice was and still is the Saxaphone. After graduating from high school, Roland joined the United States Army Band where he was influenced by the Big Band Sound and Be Bop. After being noticed by his peers as a learned Musician, Roland began mastering the Saxaphone. Paying special attention to the sax masters, Roland began to "per-fect" his own style, incorporating the many differing styles of greats such as, Grover Washington, Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, Dexter Gordon, Wilton Felton, and Stanley Turntine. From thence comes the sound profoundly known as Hot Sax.
After leaving the United States Army, Roland moved to Dallas, Texas and began working at a 50-60 club with a band called Happy Days backing up artists from the fifties and sixties eras including the Platters, The Dixie Cups, Frankie Ford, Lenny Welch, The Crickets, and Brian Hyland. In 1999 Roland moved back to Mobile, and steady gigged the Mississippi Gulf Coast Casinos, all the while honing his craft. Television came calling and Roland was asked to provide music for The Creative Cook, a weekly television show featuring two talented people, a gourmet chef and an accomplished and creative musician, Roland Cobbs --"Hot Sax".
Steven Jacobs -- Drums, Vocals
Having taken up the drums in eighth grade, Steven was self taught through his high school and early college years playing in local rock, r&b, and funk bands. After marrying, his interests gravitated to jazz and the music of New Orleans where his wife’s family resided. He began working toward a music degree at the University of South Alabama and studied privately with Harrell Bosarge in Mississippi and Johnny Vidacovich in New Orleans. Steven has been a clinician with the Jim Widner Big Band Jazz Camps and has continued to study and work as a free lance drummer based in Mobile. His musical influences include Astral Project, The Meters (both Original and Funky), and anything on which Steve Gadd has played.
Justin Fobes -- Songwriting, Guitar, Vocals
If you are looking for someone with the raw talent, energy, and charisma to command even the toughest crowd, then you are looking for Justin Fobes. Hailing from Mobile, Alabama, Justin has been playing guitar since he was 10 years old. While other kids were learning the popular songs of the day, Justin was already crafting his own. By the age of 15, he had written over 30 songs, and by 18, he was playing at restaurants and events all along the Gulf Coast. After seven years of touring the southeastern United States opening for such acts as the Counting Crows, Live, and Don Henley, performing up to 307 shows a year! Justin Fobes now resides in Mobile, AL playing several nights a week, at the many attractions there. While he's not busy with his duties as a Rockstar, Justin usually divides his time working on his recording projects and quality family time. To put a label on his music would be unfair. He is a singer, songwriter, and guitarist who blends folk with rock and blues with pop. To date, Justin has released three albums and is currently working on a fourth project, due to be released in 2007. He has written, or co-written, over a hundred songs. His impressive guitar playing and powerful vocals merge to create a truly unique sound that McDaniel Wyatt of Skyscraper Magazine said "[has] echoes of Jeff Buckley's ambience, Rufus Wainwright's sincerity, and Peter Yorn's powerful delivery". Offering uniquely crafted songs that blend the sounds of folk, rock, blues and pop, Justin Fobes is truly an original.
So, what are your influences? - October 13, 2006
So, what are your influences?
People often want a grocery list here of artists they may or may not be familiar with so that they may compare their understanding of these artists lifes' works to what they may or may not know of me. As an ice breaker, I find it lacking for want of any real substance as there is often no real correlation between what people want to hear and what I need to say, so:
Everything truly musical influences me.
End of conversation.
But really, what I need to say is that my biggest influences have always been the women in my life!
My Father left My Mother when I was two, so I sang a chorus to cheer her:
"Big Truck Gone Bye-Bye."
He had a Green Dodge, my Mother had a beloved LP collection. I found the Beatles Double Disc 'White Album' through Panasonic headphones. What were all these people singing about? I wanted her to know that I too could share in her love of this music and bring her happiness. She remarried and held me on a large cotton pillow with candles and Joni Mitchell.
In my quest for affection, and love, I memorized every scratch and pop of her collection and strove for the meaning in the lyrics so that I could impress my Mother with my depth of understanding and soon enough, mimicry.
We attended the 5:30 Mass at St. Mary's Church every Sunday because they had, at that time, a more contemporary service replete with an Acoustic-Electric guitar Frontman and an electric Bass weilding utility player who sometimes moonlighted hand percussion. There was a long shimmering Brunette who sang harmonies, a Pocohantas whose parts I mastered and shouted back at her from the front pew. I wanted her to know I shared in her love for what she was doing and bring her happiness. She did smile at me. I was six.
Suzannah Lee taught Music at the all boys UMS Prepatory School around '84-'85. Tall and grinning with a bouncy wisp of gray I was soon moving myself around the chorus room into the various vocal range sections without her permission to show her that I could be everything she needed. I mastered every section except the lower registers and had soon moved into the realm of harmonic construction. The Flute-a-Phone seemed toyish to me, but the then Ms. Lee gave me special instruction with my breath and that made all the difference.
UMS had several Headmasters in a short time so I was transferred to St. Ignatius where I became a Basketball Golf Football Playing Altar Boy. With 20 girls in each class, I was quite distracted, and I didn't quite fit. Sixth grade was hard! The, popular with the girls Burch twins, Tommy and Danny had big brothers and we hiply blared the Clash and Drop Dead Legs after football practice. One day Danny quietly asked me if I'd ever heard the White Album. I was astonished because I knew there were soft songs there that didn't resemble the competitive or boyish attitudes we relished in but when we listened we sang along loudly and proudly! Now I was popular with the girls because I was one of the guys who were popular with the girls.
A significant thing happend to me at 12. Mrs. Suzannah Lee Weeks moved to St. Ignatuis and implemented a guitar program. I toted my Uncle Roddy's Chicago Acoustic guitar everywhere and played it to impress the fair Karen Saint whom I'd met at sports events and Cotillion. I was an Apt Pupil and recieved much more instruction from Mrs. Weeks before she became pregnant with triplets.
I then learned the tyranny of women. 8th grade teacher Mrs. Randag found my innocent and sweetly heart felt gestures toward Ginny Haithcock to be, I suppose, an abomination, and called me out to humiliate me before my peers, daily. I decided Mrs. Randag did not deserve my best work and I subverted her efforts at every opportunity. She called for counseling with Father Neske and the went so far as suggesting to my parents that I shouldn't go on to High School and bah, what a contorted mess. I retreated often to the solace of my boombox in my room when it was time for homework and eventually used headphones so my parents would think I was quietly and intently studying. I knuckeled under for finals, and made it to McGill-Toolen High School.
My grandmother, Mama Dot died of lung cancer when I was 15. I loved her, and she was gone. She had stopped taking her pain medication to save for a guitar from my instructor, Mark Habib. I loved her, and she was gone. I still play that guitar every day. Was she my biggest influence?
Music was my thing now, not grades, not goals. I gave up Golf although I was quite good. My life existed in Lyric form. I wrote songs. Jimmy Buffett attended McGill-Toolen after all! I got a girlfriend, lettered in Football. graduated and got a scholarship to Spring Hill College where I studied English under John Hafner. Unfortunately, they'd cut the Music program about that time and I, disillusioned spent most of my time drinking on my buddy Andrew Flowers back porch picking his acoustic guitar.
I recieved my semester grades and didn't bother to open them. So instead of an emotional breakdown, I returned to my happiest place and played joyously. I sang Eric Clapton's 'Bell Bottom Blues' for an angelic female, Ellen Mayer. Weeping, she revealed that I should "...concentrate now on my music." I was 20 and this beauty had unwittingly reconciled me with her validation. Life was now freely mine to live without the shackles of societal expectation because I believed her and I still do. I could do whatever I wanted to do, whenever I wanted to do it.
I've had 12 successful years of Professional Musicianship since.
So, what are your influences?
People often want a grocery list here of artists they may or may not be familiar with so that they may compare their understanding of these artists lifes' works to what they may or may not know of me. As an ice breaker, I find it lacking for want of any real substance as there is often no real correlation between what people want to hear and what I need to say, so:
Everything truly musical influences me.
End of conversation.
But really, what I need to say is that my biggest influences have always been the women in my life!
My Father left My Mother when I was two, so I sang a chorus to cheer her:
"Big Truck Gone Bye-Bye."
He had a Green Dodge, my Mother had a beloved LP collection. I found the Beatles Double Disc 'White Album' through Panasonic headphones. What were all these people singing about? I wanted her to know that I too could share in her love of this music and bring her happiness. She remarried and held me on a large cotton pillow with candles and Joni Mitchell.
In my quest for affection, and love, I memorized every scratch and pop of her collection and strove for the meaning in the lyrics so that I could impress my Mother with my depth of understanding and soon enough, mimicry.
We attended the 5:30 Mass at St. Mary's Church every Sunday because they had, at that time, a more contemporary service replete with an Acoustic-Electric guitar Frontman and an electric Bass weilding utility player who sometimes moonlighted hand percussion. There was a long shimmering Brunette who sang harmonies, a Pocohantas whose parts I mastered and shouted back at her from the front pew. I wanted her to know I shared in her love for what she was doing and bring her happiness. She did smile at me. I was six.
Suzannah Lee taught Music at the all boys UMS Prepatory School around '84-'85. Tall and grinning with a bouncy wisp of gray I was soon moving myself around the chorus room into the various vocal range sections without her permission to show her that I could be everything she needed. I mastered every section except the lower registers and had soon moved into the realm of harmonic construction. The Flute-a-Phone seemed toyish to me, but the then Ms. Lee gave me special instruction with my breath and that made all the difference.
UMS had several Headmasters in a short time so I was transferred to St. Ignatius where I became a Basketball Golf Football Playing Altar Boy. With 20 girls in each class, I was quite distracted, and I didn't quite fit. Sixth grade was hard! The, popular with the girls Burch twins, Tommy and Danny had big brothers and we hiply blared the Clash and Drop Dead Legs after football practice. One day Danny quietly asked me if I'd ever heard the White Album. I was astonished because I knew there were soft songs there that didn't resemble the competitive or boyish attitudes we relished in but when we listened we sang along loudly and proudly! Now I was popular with the girls because I was one of the guys who were popular with the girls.
A significant thing happend to me at 12. Mrs. Suzannah Lee Weeks moved to St. Ignatuis and implemented a guitar program. I toted my Uncle Roddy's Chicago Acoustic guitar everywhere and played it to impress the fair Karen Saint whom I'd met at sports events and Cotillion. I was an Apt Pupil and recieved much more instruction from Mrs. Weeks before she became pregnant with triplets.
I then learned the tyranny of women. 8th grade teacher Mrs. Randag found my innocent and sweetly heart felt gestures toward Ginny Haithcock to be, I suppose, an abomination, and called me out to humiliate me before my peers, daily. I decided Mrs. Randag did not deserve my best work and I subverted her efforts at every opportunity. She called for counseling with Father Neske and the went so far as suggesting to my parents that I shouldn't go on to High School and bah, what a contorted mess. I retreated often to the solace of my boombox in my room when it was time for homework and eventually used headphones so my parents would think I was quietly and intently studying. I knuckeled under for finals, and made it to McGill-Toolen High School.
My grandmother, Mama Dot died of lung cancer when I was 15. I loved her, and she was gone. She had stopped taking her pain medication to save for a guitar from my instructor, Mark Habib. I loved her, and she was gone. I still play that guitar every day. Was she my biggest influence?
Music was my thing now, not grades, not goals. I gave up Golf although I was quite good. My life existed in Lyric form. I wrote songs. Jimmy Buffett attended McGill-Toolen after all! I got a girlfriend, lettered in Football. graduated and got a scholarship to Spring Hill College where I studied English under John Hafner. Unfortunately, they'd cut the Music program about that time and I, disillusioned spent most of my time drinking on my buddy Andrew Flowers back porch picking his acoustic guitar.
I recieved my semester grades and didn't bother to open them. So instead of an emotional breakdown, I returned to my happiest place and played joyously. I sang Eric Clapton's 'Bell Bottom Blues' for an angelic female, Ellen Mayer. Weeping, she revealed that I should "...concentrate now on my music." I was 20 and this beauty had unwittingly reconciled me with her validation. Life was now freely mine to live without the shackles of societal expectation because I believed her and I still do. I could do whatever I wanted to do, whenever I wanted to do it.
I've had 12 successful years of Professional Musicianship since.
So, what are your influences?
From Beautiful St. John, U.S.V.I. - June 23, 2006
Hi all.
Justin Fobes here in beautiful Cruz Bay St. John, U.S.V.I. I'm down here with my old bridge
jumping buddy, Ryan Balthrop for a few weeks playing together as "The Burning
Sensations". We're spreading it all over the Island. Here's our schedule:
Fri June 16 Island Blues (Coral bay) 9 til
Sat June 17 Pastory gardens 7-10 (Cruz Bay)
Sat June 17 The Front Yard 11 til "
Sun June 18 Skinny Legs 6- 9 (Coral Bay)
Mon June 19 The Banana Deck 6-9 (Cruz Bay)
Wed June 21 The Beach Bar 9 til (Cruz bay)
Fri June 23 The Front Yard 10 til
Sat June 24 Pastory Gardens 7-10
Sun June 25 Island Blues 6- 9
There are more shows popping up including the Commodore's Cup Captains Party on June 30th instead of the previously scheduled Beach Bar performance. I was told that we would be racing on the boat "The Rainbow Maker". Should be fun!
We will also be playing the July 4th fireworks celebration on Cruz Bay. That's Carnival time here. There will be dancing in the streets and whatnot.
Wish you were here!
B-)
-Justin
Justin Fobes here in beautiful Cruz Bay St. John, U.S.V.I. I'm down here with my old bridge
jumping buddy, Ryan Balthrop for a few weeks playing together as "The Burning
Sensations". We're spreading it all over the Island. Here's our schedule:
Fri June 16 Island Blues (Coral bay) 9 til
Sat June 17 Pastory gardens 7-10 (Cruz Bay)
Sat June 17 The Front Yard 11 til "
Sun June 18 Skinny Legs 6- 9 (Coral Bay)
Mon June 19 The Banana Deck 6-9 (Cruz Bay)
Wed June 21 The Beach Bar 9 til (Cruz bay)
Fri June 23 The Front Yard 10 til
Sat June 24 Pastory Gardens 7-10
Sun June 25 Island Blues 6- 9
There are more shows popping up including the Commodore's Cup Captains Party on June 30th instead of the previously scheduled Beach Bar performance. I was told that we would be racing on the boat "The Rainbow Maker". Should be fun!
We will also be playing the July 4th fireworks celebration on Cruz Bay. That's Carnival time here. There will be dancing in the streets and whatnot.
Wish you were here!
B-)
-Justin
Justin Fobes: Thick Calluses, Good Chops - June 3, 2006
Justin Fobes: Thick Calluses, Good Chops
Chris Manson June 1, 2006 Issue The Beachcomber Newspaper
The first time I see sing`er-guitarist Justin Fobes, he’s playing at the Ball’s (sic) Out Sports Bar in Santa Rosa Beach, one of the last places I expect to hear live music. I assume people come here to watch a ballgame, but you know what they say about “assume.” My first impression of Fobes is that of a first-rate acoustic performer—one look at his well-worn guitar confirms it. But what I really marvel at is the level of intensity he displays even when he’s playing for a ridiculously small audience consisting of myself, the bar owners, and a guy who stopped in for a beer after work. The crowd would come later.
Fobes arrived from Birmingham last November to join the Hog’s Breath Band. After six months, they had an amicable parting. “I discovered I could get more work outside of it,” Fobes says. “It’s been good for everybody. We’re still friendly.” Now Fobes plays at least five nights a week. “I’ve got really thick calluses,” he says proudly.
He began playing for a living at 22 and took a few years off to work in a guitar store. He hasn’t had a day job since 2001. He stays busy with lots of solo gigs and keeps the Justin Fobes Band on call—a collective of “at this point, 22 drummers, five bass players, four other guitar players, a pair of female vocalists…whoever I can get.” Fobes is also part of a new band with Black Eyed Blonde’s Dan Collins—together, they host the Monday night jam at Fudpucker’s Art Bar. And while we’re on the subject of jamming, Fobes also sits in with Cadillac Willy on occasion.
Fobes’s set list offers the usual favorites—crowd-pleasing beach anthems, Grateful Dead and other ‘60s standards—along with plenty of wild card choices. “I look at the crowd and try to imagine what they want,” Fobes says. “I know hundreds of songs. I started playing guitar so I could write songs. I had bands that did original songs, but around here people don’t care that much about stuff they haven’t heard. I’m okay with that—it helps me keep my chops up.” He does a moody and introspective version of Dylan’s All Along the Watchtower—his vocal range is amazing without really calling attention to it.
At Ball’s Out Fobes plays an original, Stop, Drop and Roll. When I was a kid that was a catch phrase from a Dick Van Dyke fire-safety public service commercial. In Fobes’s hands, it’s a sex-drenched romp that finds room for some good Santana-flavored guitar. At least that’s the comparison the guy at the bar throws out. To me, it could almost be a tribute to Django Reinhardt and Charlie Christian. When I get around to asking about his guitar style, Fobes informs he that he “wanted to be Bill Frissell when he grew up.” He should hook up with Lyndsey Battle, another huge fan of the jazz guitarist, if he can fit one more side project into his schedule.
Monday I catch Fobes at Fudpucker’s. He’s singing and playing electric guitar with Collins on bass and Duane Mays, a first-rate drummer. The band doesn’t have a name yet, and the music ranges from spacey fusion to flat-out bluesy. With his skills in high demand, it’s hard to say where Fobes will turn up next. You can keep tabs on this restless musician at www.justinfobes.com.
Chris Manson June 1, 2006 Issue The Beachcomber Newspaper
The first time I see sing`er-guitarist Justin Fobes, he’s playing at the Ball’s (sic) Out Sports Bar in Santa Rosa Beach, one of the last places I expect to hear live music. I assume people come here to watch a ballgame, but you know what they say about “assume.” My first impression of Fobes is that of a first-rate acoustic performer—one look at his well-worn guitar confirms it. But what I really marvel at is the level of intensity he displays even when he’s playing for a ridiculously small audience consisting of myself, the bar owners, and a guy who stopped in for a beer after work. The crowd would come later.
Fobes arrived from Birmingham last November to join the Hog’s Breath Band. After six months, they had an amicable parting. “I discovered I could get more work outside of it,” Fobes says. “It’s been good for everybody. We’re still friendly.” Now Fobes plays at least five nights a week. “I’ve got really thick calluses,” he says proudly.
He began playing for a living at 22 and took a few years off to work in a guitar store. He hasn’t had a day job since 2001. He stays busy with lots of solo gigs and keeps the Justin Fobes Band on call—a collective of “at this point, 22 drummers, five bass players, four other guitar players, a pair of female vocalists…whoever I can get.” Fobes is also part of a new band with Black Eyed Blonde’s Dan Collins—together, they host the Monday night jam at Fudpucker’s Art Bar. And while we’re on the subject of jamming, Fobes also sits in with Cadillac Willy on occasion.
Fobes’s set list offers the usual favorites—crowd-pleasing beach anthems, Grateful Dead and other ‘60s standards—along with plenty of wild card choices. “I look at the crowd and try to imagine what they want,” Fobes says. “I know hundreds of songs. I started playing guitar so I could write songs. I had bands that did original songs, but around here people don’t care that much about stuff they haven’t heard. I’m okay with that—it helps me keep my chops up.” He does a moody and introspective version of Dylan’s All Along the Watchtower—his vocal range is amazing without really calling attention to it.
At Ball’s Out Fobes plays an original, Stop, Drop and Roll. When I was a kid that was a catch phrase from a Dick Van Dyke fire-safety public service commercial. In Fobes’s hands, it’s a sex-drenched romp that finds room for some good Santana-flavored guitar. At least that’s the comparison the guy at the bar throws out. To me, it could almost be a tribute to Django Reinhardt and Charlie Christian. When I get around to asking about his guitar style, Fobes informs he that he “wanted to be Bill Frissell when he grew up.” He should hook up with Lyndsey Battle, another huge fan of the jazz guitarist, if he can fit one more side project into his schedule.
Monday I catch Fobes at Fudpucker’s. He’s singing and playing electric guitar with Collins on bass and Duane Mays, a first-rate drummer. The band doesn’t have a name yet, and the music ranges from spacey fusion to flat-out bluesy. With his skills in high demand, it’s hard to say where Fobes will turn up next. You can keep tabs on this restless musician at www.justinfobes.com.
Into my own . . . - April 19, 2006
Hi all.
Justin Fobes here, writing to send some SUNSHINE your way! The beach has been incredible this Spring Break and I'm gigging like crazy, complete with some "Saturday Three A Days". I think I'm finally coming into my own . . .
Wave 102.1 here in Destin has been a big help promoting my work, and this Friday, my newest band project will be broadcasting live at 8:30AM (DOH!), so listen up all you early morning drivetimers!
If you'd like to see where all I'm playing in Destin, Mobile, and Birmingham in the next week, just copy the link below and paste it into your browser.
http://www.JustinFobes.com/calendar.html
If I don't see you at my shows, thanks for your attention here, but if you do happen to honor me with your presence, thanks especially for your applause and generous tips!
-Justin Fobes
205-587-2729
http://www.JustinFobes.com
http://www.MySpace.com/TheJustinFobesBand
http://www.sonicbids.com/JustinFobes
http://www.virtualstudiosystems.com/artistPage.php?ArtistID=195
Justin Fobes here, writing to send some SUNSHINE your way! The beach has been incredible this Spring Break and I'm gigging like crazy, complete with some "Saturday Three A Days". I think I'm finally coming into my own . . .
Wave 102.1 here in Destin has been a big help promoting my work, and this Friday, my newest band project will be broadcasting live at 8:30AM (DOH!), so listen up all you early morning drivetimers!
If you'd like to see where all I'm playing in Destin, Mobile, and Birmingham in the next week, just copy the link below and paste it into your browser.
http://www.JustinFobes.com/calendar.html
If I don't see you at my shows, thanks for your attention here, but if you do happen to honor me with your presence, thanks especially for your applause and generous tips!
-Justin Fobes
205-587-2729
http://www.JustinFobes.com
http://www.MySpace.com/TheJustinFobesBand
http://www.sonicbids.com/JustinFobes
http://www.virtualstudiosystems.com/artistPage.php?ArtistID=195
Gig Pig - March 28, 2006
Hi all,
Justin Fobes here, thanking you for not requesting to be removed from my email list after some of the mishaps I had in the last week or so. As far as I can tell, 541 people recieved at least seven emails from me in one day (some recieved 11), but out of that many, only two people opted to be removed, so since they're not here, let's make good fun of them for not being level headed enough to ride it out.
Yay you!
Boo those guys!
This week sees me quite busy:
Mar 29, 2006 8:30 PM The Harbor Docks Destin, FL Solo LADIES DRINK FREE WHILE I PLAY!
SERIOUSLY!
Mar 30, 2006 7:00 PM Private Party
Destin, FL Solo
Mar 31, 2006 6:00 PM Fudpucker's Destin, FL Solo
Mar 31, 2006 10:00 PM The Harbor Docks Destin, FL Full Band!
Apr 1, 2006 10:00 AM The Arthritis Foundation Fun Walk Mobile, AL
At Hank Aaron Stadium with "Bone and the Joints"!
Apr 1, 2006 6:00 PM Fudpucker's Destin, FL Solo
Apr 1, 2006 11:00 PM Fudpucker's Destin, FL Solo
Apr 2, 2006 6:00 PM Fudpucker's Destin, FL Solo
Thanks again for your kind patience and consideration, and as always Thanks for your APPLAUSE!
-Justin Fobes
205-587-2729
http://www.JustinFobes.com
http://www.MySpace.com/TheJustinFobesBand
http://www.sonicbids.com/JustinFobes
http://www.virtualstudiosystems.com/artistPage.php?ArtistID=195
Justin Fobes here, thanking you for not requesting to be removed from my email list after some of the mishaps I had in the last week or so. As far as I can tell, 541 people recieved at least seven emails from me in one day (some recieved 11), but out of that many, only two people opted to be removed, so since they're not here, let's make good fun of them for not being level headed enough to ride it out.
Yay you!
Boo those guys!
This week sees me quite busy:
Mar 29, 2006 8:30 PM The Harbor Docks Destin, FL Solo LADIES DRINK FREE WHILE I PLAY!
SERIOUSLY!
Mar 30, 2006 7:00 PM Private Party
Destin, FL Solo
Mar 31, 2006 6:00 PM Fudpucker's Destin, FL Solo
Mar 31, 2006 10:00 PM The Harbor Docks Destin, FL Full Band!
Apr 1, 2006 10:00 AM The Arthritis Foundation Fun Walk Mobile, AL
At Hank Aaron Stadium with "Bone and the Joints"!
Apr 1, 2006 6:00 PM Fudpucker's Destin, FL Solo
Apr 1, 2006 11:00 PM Fudpucker's Destin, FL Solo
Apr 2, 2006 6:00 PM Fudpucker's Destin, FL Solo
Thanks again for your kind patience and consideration, and as always Thanks for your APPLAUSE!
-Justin Fobes
205-587-2729
http://www.JustinFobes.com
http://www.MySpace.com/TheJustinFobesBand
http://www.sonicbids.com/JustinFobes
http://www.virtualstudiosystems.com/artistPage.php?ArtistID=195
Moving on. - March 4, 2006
Well it's my last weekend with the Hog's Breath Band, if you're in Destin, come out and hang with us tonight Saturday March 4th and tomorrow Sunday March 5th. We've got the venerable Doug "Dr. D" Dickerson sitting in. He's done a great job of getting current quickly on all of our tunes as well as adding some beautiful unprepossessed melodic ideas. We're having fun right right up until the last minute, come out and party!
Next week I'll be back in Mobile at Bilotti's 1850 Room with Rondale and Bibi, those of you who've experienced us know that you don't want to miss our 'reunion'. It's been several months coming, and we all know it will be awesome. Some folks you just gel with and it can make all the difference. We have many more great times scheduled, all of which I'm very much looking forward to.
Wednesday I'm headed up to B'ham to work on some tracks with Brandon Peeples for a few days, after which I've got to be in back Destin again to begin my Spring Break Tenure at Fudpucker's where I'l be playing every Friday and Saturday from 6-10 'til April 22nd. They say I'll have 300+ in the crowd each night. I'm looking forward to the exposure.
Hasta luego!
-Justin Fobes
Next week I'll be back in Mobile at Bilotti's 1850 Room with Rondale and Bibi, those of you who've experienced us know that you don't want to miss our 'reunion'. It's been several months coming, and we all know it will be awesome. Some folks you just gel with and it can make all the difference. We have many more great times scheduled, all of which I'm very much looking forward to.
Wednesday I'm headed up to B'ham to work on some tracks with Brandon Peeples for a few days, after which I've got to be in back Destin again to begin my Spring Break Tenure at Fudpucker's where I'l be playing every Friday and Saturday from 6-10 'til April 22nd. They say I'll have 300+ in the crowd each night. I'm looking forward to the exposure.
Hasta luego!
-Justin Fobes
Went well. - February 24, 2006
My visit with Brandon in Birmingham went very well, we listened closely to the tracks laid down last Fall with Chris Fryar in my little Bungalow Studio on Dauphin Street, Brandon seemed both pleased with the progress and the direction. We may try to suppliment the nine "keeper" tracks with a few commercially produced radio friendly 'Singles', but the situation would have to be just right in order to justify the expendature of time, effort, etc. We'll see...
Maybe this is more than you need to know, but at least you heard it here instead of me just leaving you guessing.
-Justin
Maybe this is more than you need to know, but at least you heard it here instead of me just leaving you guessing.
-Justin
The Justin Fobes Band - February 19, 2006
As many of you already know, the Justin Fobes Band is reconvening, I plan to spend some time in Birmingham this week with Brandon to go over the recordings and to solidify our business plan. We are both very excited at the recent turn of events for us, Brandon leaving B and the Buzz, and me leaving the Hog's Breath Band. Wow.
What's next?
What's next?
Hog's Breath Band - February 19, 2006
I'll be leaving the Hog's Breath band to pursue other opportunities. They will be moving on also with new players and a new agenda. I'm very pleased with all I learned these last four months, and I believe my influence there was well recieved. In my book, The Hog's Breath Saloon is still a great place to hang out and hear great live music!
MySpace? - February 3, 2006
All you MySpacers check out the Justin Fobes Band on MySpace:
http://www.myspace.com/thejustinfobesband
We got no gigs planned, but Brandon has just kicked his B and the Buzz habit moved back to Birmingham and I miss him. Chris is not returning my phone calls. But he's always been crappy with that...
I'm still in the Hog's Breath Band screamin' at the beaches. Come hang, contact me and I'll probably even put you up. Cheap vacation anyone?
-Justin
http://www.myspace.com/thejustinfobesband
We got no gigs planned, but Brandon has just kicked his B and the Buzz habit moved back to Birmingham and I miss him. Chris is not returning my phone calls. But he's always been crappy with that...
I'm still in the Hog's Breath Band screamin' at the beaches. Come hang, contact me and I'll probably even put you up. Cheap vacation anyone?
-Justin
MySpace? - February 3, 2006
All you MySpacers check out the Justin Fobes Band on MySpace:
http://www.myspace.com/thejustinfobesband
We got no gigs planned, but Brandon has just kicked his B and the Buzz habit moved back to Birmingham and I miss him. Chris is not returning my phone calls. But he's always been crappy with that...
I'm still in the Hog's Breath Band screamin' at the beaches. Come hang, contact me and I'll probably even put you up. Cheap vacation anyone?
-Justin
http://www.myspace.com/thejustinfobesband
We got no gigs planned, but Brandon has just kicked his B and the Buzz habit moved back to Birmingham and I miss him. Chris is not returning my phone calls. But he's always been crappy with that...
I'm still in the Hog's Breath Band screamin' at the beaches. Come hang, contact me and I'll probably even put you up. Cheap vacation anyone?
-Justin
Happy Xmas! - December 25, 2005
May all of your Holiday Wishes come true.
And may all of mine...
Happy Xmas!
And may all of mine...
Happy Xmas!
SATURDAY NIGHT! - December 3, 2005
It's Saturday night, what better an excuse to throw down? It's been a great week hanging with the guys from Tishamingo, and Justin Brogdon. Had some great Afterhours Jams with Tim O'Shea and John Horman from the AJ's House Band. Cadillac Willy is still my all time fav party band to jam with though, these guys know what great music is all about, a good time! Life is great here on the water. Wish you were here.
Coming into Week 5 - November 30, 2005
It's been a great run thus far at the Hog. Everyone is still very encouraging and the band is getting better and better. I've joined the Destin Athletic Club with hopes of a real beach tan by Spring and have altered my diet accordingly. Adding a a dozen or so pounds of muscle seems like a worthwhile goal! This week we're quite busy making preparations for some of our longer range targets, the details of which I cannot divulge just yet, but as you can only imagine, I'm stoked.
First Week Under My Belt - November 8, 2005
Hi all.
Justin Fobes here, thanking everyone at the Hog's Breath Saloon in Destin, FL for making my first week in the Hog's Breath Band so very enjoyable. Of course they're pros, since the Hog's Breath is known for it's easy going attitude, but I really felt welcomed and appreciated, and am looking forward to a rewarding tenure. The Hog's Breath Band is made up of Greg Sander on Drums, Kim Brown on Vocals, Josh Blackburn on Guitar and Vocals, and Dave Jones on Bass and Vocals. These guys are mindblowingly good, I've never played with a more skilled group of professional players. That said, it's been a blast continually having to rock my way out of musician timeout! :-D
Justin Fobes here, thanking everyone at the Hog's Breath Saloon in Destin, FL for making my first week in the Hog's Breath Band so very enjoyable. Of course they're pros, since the Hog's Breath is known for it's easy going attitude, but I really felt welcomed and appreciated, and am looking forward to a rewarding tenure. The Hog's Breath Band is made up of Greg Sander on Drums, Kim Brown on Vocals, Josh Blackburn on Guitar and Vocals, and Dave Jones on Bass and Vocals. These guys are mindblowingly good, I've never played with a more skilled group of professional players. That said, it's been a blast continually having to rock my way out of musician timeout! :-D
Moving to Destin - October 23, 2005
Wow. I'm moving this next week to Destin, FL where the water is green the air is clean and the stars shine brighter than the moon. The Hog's Breath Saloon will be my new home five nights a week. I'll have zero responsibilities during the day... Whatever will I do?
Justin Fobes plays Olde Auburn Ale House (Article) - May 21, 2005
Justin Fobes plays Olde Auburn Ale House
Megan Lynch
thecornernews.com
Wednesday, March 2, 2005
Olde Auburn Ale House is known for its tasty micro brews and true bar feel, but what about its music?
Tucked away in a crevice behind Cheeburger Cheeburger, Olde Auburn Ale House sits quietly, serving as home for many outstanding, yet unknown musicians.
Justin Fobes was the music on tap Wednesday night, Feb. 23.
While he performed for the patrons and staff, he recorded the live session.
Originally from Mobile, Fobes, 30, has been playing the bar scene for 19 years. He has also had the privilege of opening up shows for big name acts such as Live, The Counting Crows and Don Henley.
However, throughout the last 13 years, Fobes has made the drive many times to the beautiful plains to showcase a piece of what he would call heaven.
As Fobes stood on the small stage inside the walls of the local pub singing both original and cover pieces, his passion for music showed through.
His good looks and exceptional vocals, a cross between Keller Williams and John Mayer, had each girl looking on with googly eyes. Yet, his ability on the guitar was so impressive that even the guys looked on with envy.
As he performed a one-man act, he began looping his music making it sound as if you were right in the middle of a large band. His music blends the backgrounds of folk, rock, blues and pop, creating a very unique sound.
Music has become second nature for Fobes. He began playing at the early age of 10. Throughout his career, his play list has grown to an impressive size.
"I know 200 cover songs, but I prefer to play my own songs," Fobes said.
But music for him has a deep and loving history.
"My grandmother died of lung cancer and she spent her pain medication money to buy me a guitar. When she died I made a vow that I would play that guitar."
Fobes strummed the night away on that very guitar.
As a Sigma Chi at Springhill College, Fobes began publicly playing for fraternities. Now Fobes is taking his passion up a notch.
"I am selling my house and buying a Winnebago so I can travel and play all around," Fobes said. "Playing music is who I am and what I do. I never want to have another job for the rest of my life."
Megan Lynch
thecornernews.com
Wednesday, March 2, 2005
Olde Auburn Ale House is known for its tasty micro brews and true bar feel, but what about its music?
Tucked away in a crevice behind Cheeburger Cheeburger, Olde Auburn Ale House sits quietly, serving as home for many outstanding, yet unknown musicians.
Justin Fobes was the music on tap Wednesday night, Feb. 23.
While he performed for the patrons and staff, he recorded the live session.
Originally from Mobile, Fobes, 30, has been playing the bar scene for 19 years. He has also had the privilege of opening up shows for big name acts such as Live, The Counting Crows and Don Henley.
However, throughout the last 13 years, Fobes has made the drive many times to the beautiful plains to showcase a piece of what he would call heaven.
As Fobes stood on the small stage inside the walls of the local pub singing both original and cover pieces, his passion for music showed through.
His good looks and exceptional vocals, a cross between Keller Williams and John Mayer, had each girl looking on with googly eyes. Yet, his ability on the guitar was so impressive that even the guys looked on with envy.
As he performed a one-man act, he began looping his music making it sound as if you were right in the middle of a large band. His music blends the backgrounds of folk, rock, blues and pop, creating a very unique sound.
Music has become second nature for Fobes. He began playing at the early age of 10. Throughout his career, his play list has grown to an impressive size.
"I know 200 cover songs, but I prefer to play my own songs," Fobes said.
But music for him has a deep and loving history.
"My grandmother died of lung cancer and she spent her pain medication money to buy me a guitar. When she died I made a vow that I would play that guitar."
Fobes strummed the night away on that very guitar.
As a Sigma Chi at Springhill College, Fobes began publicly playing for fraternities. Now Fobes is taking his passion up a notch.
"I am selling my house and buying a Winnebago so I can travel and play all around," Fobes said. "Playing music is who I am and what I do. I never want to have another job for the rest of my life."