Pivot

Artist Information

Biography

Pivot is a group in relentless pursuit of perfection and constant change. Its members share more than just a passion for their work. They have a sense of urgency in re-inventing themselves with every word put to paper or note put to tape. Their live show incorporates simplistic visual effects that tie sight and sound into one. Pivot will leave its audience making plans to see the next show. This band is quite simply interested in one thing...creating good music.

The Dream (2006): A 4 song E.P. that brings to light a band with a story to tell and the skill to tell it. Driven rhythms, colorful riffs, and fluid harmonies intertwine throughout this release.

5 Days: (2009) The latest release expands on similar ideas from previous works while taking a more aggressive edge on the already established progressive style of rock. This is evident through technical yet fluid riffs that combine with driven rythms. The vocal melodies tie it all together. 5 Days is a collection of songs that can be enjoyed by fans of all genres.

Accomplishments:
- Songs featured in Microsoft Windows 7 promotional campaign.
- Performed @ The Vans Warped Tour 2008.
- Performed @ The Dorton Arena for the Carolina Roller Girls.
- Opened for Sony/Epic recording artist MuDvAyNe
- Opened for National recording artist NONPOINT
- Opened for National recording artist The Exies
- Opened for Sony recording artist Fingertight
- Opened for Columbia recording artist Crossfade
- Opened for Wind Up Records recording artist Boysetsfire
- Opened for Solid State Records recording artist Beloved
- Opened for Sony recording artist Magna-Fi
- Opened for National recording artist Confessor
- Opened for National recording artist Jimmie's Chicken Shack
- Opened for Faster Pussy Cat
- Opened for LA Guns
- Opened for Tantric
-#2 for 2 months at USA Network's FarmClub
-#1 for the third and final month of USA Network's FarmClub. Announced on USA network for 3 months as one of the top 5 unsigned bands in the
nation by Matt Pinfield from MTV
- Accepted to showcase at The Masquerade for the Atlantis Music Conference 2004 in Atlanta, GA.
- Accepted to showcase at the Millennium Music Conference 2004 in Harrisburg, PA.
- Sponsored by Pork Pie Percussion, Dirt Bag Clothing, and partial JagerMeister sponsorship.
- Played the Ernie Ball Local Heroes Tour
- Sound bites were recorded and used by a National franchise (Krystal Burgers) for a nation wide commercial.
- Song used for the Travel Channel (Wild Within) 2011

Sponsorships:

- PorkPie Drums
- Spector Bass
- DirtBag Clothing

Instrumentation

Eric Hambright - Guitar
phil Cicco - Drums
Michael Hambright - Bass
Brian Kelly - singer & guitar

Discography

2000 - Self Titled EP
2003 - Simple Machines
2004 - Feoh records "Summer Dying Fast" Comp CD
2004 - Atlantis Music conference Comp CD
2004 - Zippo hot Tour Finalist Comp CD
2005 - German Mag (Rock Hard) Comp CD
2006 - The Dream
2009 - 5 Days


Sound bites available at www.pivotband.com and www.myspace.com/pivot

Pivot is currently in rotation on WKNC 88.1FM (Raleigh, NC) and WBBB 96.1FM (Raleigh, NC)

Links

• Reverb Nation

Audio

• F.O.E.
  Listen  
• Wayward Preacher
  Listen  
• Safe
  Listen  
• Dr. Weird
  Listen  

Lyrics

• F.O.E.
• Wayward Preacher
• Safe
• Dr. Weird

Video

Photo Gallery

Press

• 5 Days 10 Out of 10 [+ Show ]
  

  Rating: 10 Out Of 10 Reviewed by: Bam-Bam www.away-team.com By Gosh, The North Carolina Area Ha...Rating: 10 Out Of 10
  Reviewed by: Bam-Bam
  www.away-team.com
  
  By Gosh, The North Carolina Area Has Done It Again!!! PIVOT scores an out-of-the-park Homerun with 5 Days and does so in ways that are so obvious on the first listen that I’d give them extra points if they were available to me!
  
  First, let me give you some background on why I just love this band on an aesthetic level. For the past six years I’ve consistently awaited a new package from drummer Phil Cicco as the band releases a cool E.P. every two years, without fail! Consistency; the name of the game in the music business, check-plus! Then, I look at the cover of each release and try to figure out what I’m in for since the band can do EVERYTHING, EVERY STYLE, and in EVERY WAY! They’re great fucking musicians! Check plus, again! Once I think I have it figured out, I eagerly put the disc in and find that I’m totally off and the bastards have gone left-of the left-of-center, which makes me laugh out loud at my mistake and like them even more….check-plus/plus! Then, being a drummer, I always listen to Cicco’s chops because the guy is a monster who usually holds back about 50% of his octane just to be a true drummer built on tasteful playing, which is the RIGHT decision, but always a hard one for a drummer. Check-plus, infinitum, however 5 Days shows Phil’s talent and mental approach more so than any release to date!! Then I pay close attention to the production because these guys always get it right in the production area, using only the best producers and studios available to them, working long hours at jobs they probably hate with a passion, just to afford it! Check-plus-plus-plus! And finally, I closely listen to the lyrical content, another area that they score high in because they’re a pretty intelligent bunch of fucks with conceptual talent that belies their youthful ages. Check-fuckin’-plus!
  
  At first listen, 5 Days is easily a concept album, but one whose secret I’ve yet to uncover, other than it takes place during a normal person’s work week…still not sure if I’m onto something, but it’s a lot of fun for me, so please email your thoughts and guesses to me at Bam2@Away-Team.com.
  
  One of the biggest differences in 5 Days from the outset is the production is beyond anything they’ve done prior, and that’s saying a lot since they used JAM PAIN SOCIETY guitarist/producer Chris Hill for their earlier efforts. Hill is no slouch in that arena, so this is a monumental shock and a new name I will keep on my radar in producer/engineer Jamie King from The Basement Studios. Obviously, as I’ve said in all my reviews of this band thus far, PIVOT are huge worshippers at the altar of TOOL, but here they throw a QUEENSRYCHE-Operation Mindcrime bone my way. By using the AM/PM intros to songs that make up the crux of the individual days referred to in the title and with Phil’s intense "Scott Rockenfield cymbal-work" throughout the entire album (especially on the first track; “Wayward Preacher”), it just sings QUEENSRYCHE but without being a rip-off. Although the tunes are not epic, a fact I very much enjoy since the bands they seem to craft their music after usually drone on for days and days and days…, they are content-driven just enough to make you want to listen over and over again for clues to their inner-secrets. I find that a few listens on the computer while I’m getting ready for work, followed by an intense audible in my car in early morning traffic is the perfect combination and lays the groundwork for a fully cleared mind no matter what lies ahead of me. Again, the boys are really strong out of the gate and keep the momentum up for the entire release.
  
  A phenomenal effort in both writing and musical performance. I am happy to say that January 2009, and the release of 5 Days will mark a huge milestone for the Carolina boys and be the recording every Major Label A&R guy has picked up off of their scattered desk and played numerous times for their counterparts in order to motivate them to make the guys an offer. One can only hope they hold out for either Atlantic or Universal to call since I feel their home is at a label who shows promise for their new bands. PIVOT deserves a label that looks to build on their talent as opposed to let them sink or swim on their own just to meet a signing quota on behalf of the label as some tax write-off money for the year. PIVOT are not that green, and they know what they're looking for, so I am confident they'll make the right move and that it WILL happen for them in 2009!
  
  Easily one of my favorite albums right now, and one that I know music fans will devour with passion. Head over to their site at PIVOTBAND.COM for the details and information and updates on this forthcoming stroke of genius. Very, Very Highly Recommended and one you WILL listen to often!!!

• "5 Days" Gets Five Stars [+ Show ]
  

  The talent within the Raleigh local music scene never ceases to amaze me, and it happened again afte...The talent within the Raleigh local music scene never ceases to amaze me, and it happened again after my first listen to Pivot’s latest release, 5 Days.
  
  With 5 Days, Pivot has put together a professional piece from cover to cover, which is no surprise to me, as all of my dealings with this band have been both pleasant and professional. With eye catching originally hand drawn cover artwork cleaned up by Photoshop by Raleigh artist Bart Cusick (who also provided the cover art for Pivot’s previous release, The Dream), this album will be enjoyed by fans of almost any genre of music because it is pleasing to the ear yet edgy enough to appeal to metal fans. It features chunky guitar riffs with impeccable melodic vocals by Brian Kelly, as well as multi-part harmonies throughout. Imagine listening to the band Opeth. Take out the growling and there you have it.
  
  5 Days begins with the track AM, which is basically just an alarm clock going off. The second track, Wayward Preacher, sounds like a cross between Filter and Queensryche. The third track, Orden, is almost of epic length and features amazing vocals unlike any I have ever heard. This sounds exactly like one of the mellow parts of an Opeth song. The fourth track, FM, is another short one in which we are flipping through the stations on an FM radio. Track number five is called Safe and throughout this track you will hear just the right amount of pinched harmonics and double bass courtesy of Eric Hambright and Phil Cicco. The last track, F.O.E., has a Tool-esque feel to it.
  
  Pivot is a band that I need to hear perform live at the next opportunity. I have a hunch that their live performances are just as good as their studio recordings, if not better. This album deserves five stars not only because it displays immeasurable musical talent, but also because it is apparent that a lot of heart and soul was put into it. I have never known Pivot to do anything halfway, and they didn’t this time either. It is truly a delight to listen to and you will not regret your purchase should you choose to check it out.
  
  I'd like to thank Pivot for the opportunity to review 5 Days.
  
  To hear tracks from 5 Days, you can visit the band's Myspace page at www.myspace.com/pivot
  
  To order your copy of 5 Days, you can go here: http://cdbaby.com/all/pivotband

• "The Dream" Away Team [+ Show ]
  

  N.C. rockers PIVOT are a great band that I have followed for at least three years now and I’m proud ...N.C. rockers PIVOT are a great band that I have followed for at least three years now and I’m proud to say that they keep hitting us with a wonderful aural assault every time they release new music. Case in point; their latest, The Dream is a splendid concoction of tunes culled from 90’s Grunge dirge, mixed with some progressive and technical musicianship from 80’s era RUSH, and polished off with a new school vocal model that calls to arms the entire array of today’s big chart busters! Simply put, this four-song masterpiece has everything a fellow musician or fan of great tunes could want. Produced by the Ultra-Brilliant Chris Hill (Jam Pain Society, Slavemachine, Drill-187), and featuring back-up vocals from the sizzling Leah Kirby (Jam Pain Society), The Dream comes across as a story within a story. Everything about this gem makes me smile my ass off; from new singer Brian Kelly’s polished performance to Phil Cicco’s highly deceptive drum patterns being pinballed throughout. Two pivotal (no pun intended) tunes on the album are “The Dream: Pt. 1” and “The Dream: Pt. 2”. I suggest you get a copy of this disc and then load it in your Ipod and play these two back to back. It creates one cool song, in true PINK FLOYD fashion, that’s worth the entire price alone!!! A brilliant effort by a truly talented bunch of musicians!!! For more information on PIVOT or on how to purchase a copy of The Dream log onto PIVOT. Very Highly Recommended!!!
  
  
  Away Team
  Reviewed by:
  
  

• 5 Days Tarkus Magazine Germany [+ Show ]
  

  5 Days is EP number three in a row for U.S. Pivot, a band that seems to swear to this format, rather...5 Days is EP number three in a row for U.S. Pivot, a band that seems to swear to this format, rather than create a new album. The quartet behind the band consists of Brian Kelly (vocals/guitar/keyboards), Phil Cicco (drums/vocals), and brothers Mike (bass) and Eric (guitar) Hambright.
  
  This year's release is based upon the same ideas as the band's earlier works, but this time they have given the music a more aggressive expression which is added to the existing progressive rock style. The songs have cool riffs, driving rhythms and beautiful vocal melodies and harmonies that connect it all together. The vocalist's voice and style may remind us somewhat of Geddy Lee from Rush, and Ted Leonard from Enchant, in other words, a very talented guy.
  
  Pivot is clearly an exciting young prog band that we are guaranteed to hear more from in coming years. Their modern expression combined with classic progressive elements is a sure winner.

• "5 Days" Rock Hard Germany [+ Show ]
  

  PIVOT was interviewed online and reviewed in the Feb Issue of Rock Hard Magazine (Germany) as Demo o...PIVOT was interviewed online and reviewed in the Feb Issue of Rock Hard Magazine (Germany) as Demo of the month. (www.rockhard.de)
  
  Link to the review.
  http://www.rockhard.de/index.php?smod=p209Wz1iMUIfo2qAo2D9pz9wn2uupzDhp3Eipzyypl5xMKEunJkJnJI3Wzqlo3IjFHD9pzusp3EipaxzL29hqTIhqRyRCGD3AwZ1WaA1L2umqUWcozp9pTy2o3Dz

• Feoh Records [+ Show ]
  

  Pivot: Simple Machines There is a musical uprising happening in Raleigh, NC. Once in a decade com...Pivot: Simple Machines
  
  There is a musical uprising happening in Raleigh, NC. Once in a decade comes a band with no specific genre constraints that can penetrate the realm of commercial radio, yet hold true to their diverse influences, and simply rock out. Just off their Atlantis Music Conference showcase to 1,500+ people, this band carries a workhorse mentality, strong songs, & grass roots appeal to set themselves apart. Pivot could be the next break out national band. Check out these guys on Feoh 2004: Summer Dying Fast (track 12)… www.pivotband.com/ “Slipping Away” is the first single from the five song EP ‘Simple Machines’. The release defines the bands passion for individuality and articulates this young band’s surprising musical understanding. Feoh got the privilege to hang out with these guys in Harrisburg, PA for the MMC8 and we were floored by their performance. Keep an eye out for them---.

• Americas Best Rock [+ Show ]
  

  Pivot is truly the definition of alternative rock. This four-piece from Raleigh N.C. is indeed not a...Pivot is truly the definition of alternative rock. This four-piece from Raleigh N.C. is indeed not a force to be reckoned with. Recently touring with Mudvayne, these guys have some real potential. The 5 track EP starts off slowly and builds into the chorus of first song. Immediately I am hooked into their harmonic vocals, driving guitar riffs & amazing drum sound. They have a rather unique sound I haven't heard before, this is what draws me to them and gives them a great sound. My favorite track by far has be (3) Erase It. This could easily be a radio track that could get them the recognition they deserver. Overall this EP is solid from start to finish.
  
  I give the EP and 9 /10.
  
  
  http://www.americasbestrock.com/
  
  

• NC Scene [+ Show ]
  

  PIVOT has just released their new c.d., “Simple Machines”, and it smokes. Five killer tracks and one...PIVOT has just released their new c.d., “Simple Machines”, and it smokes. Five killer tracks and one cool little ‘substance’ influenced sounding hidden track make up this little gem and I might mention that it was all recorded and produced by non-other than my favorite fucking producer of this and the next few decades, Chris Hill! If you dig great, melodic hard rock with a slight TOOL influence, you’ll absolutely love this disc. Drummer Phil Cicco sent me a copy along with their press kit and I can’t thank him enough. Very cool stuff and I know that most of their fans will be excited that the wait is finally over!!! You can pick it up at all local record stores or online at their site [www.pivotband.com]. They’ll be hitting the road in support starting in March, so make sure to check out the tour dates on the site as well so you can catch them while they’re in the Carolinas.
  

• Toology.com [+ Show ]
  

  Pivot - simple machines This is gonna be big! The guys are currently on tour with Mudwayne. Pivot is...Pivot - simple machines This is gonna be big! The guys are currently on tour with Mudwayne. Pivot is a very good product. Heavy riffs with a great vocal, nice punchy bass lines and a great drummer. In the rest of the current new bands crap situation Pivot stands out as a long awaited refreshment. My personal favourite is ''erase it''. Agressive, fresh, loud and asskicking this band assimilated a few different music styles to create theyr own unique one. Honestly, i dont know anybody who heard them that did not fall in love with theyr music.

• Oblivion Magazine [+ Show ]
  

  Here is some fodder for the alternative fraction. It is strange that this North Carolina quarte...Here is some fodder for the alternative fraction.
  
  It is strange that this North Carolina quartet from Raleigh is still unsigned, since one can look back at "simple machines" 2003 and diverse contributions like "rock hard unheard".
  
  With the recently released second EP "The dream", the quartet presents another four fantastic pieces whose fascinating melodies will stick in your mind . The cause for this is not only the excellent songwriting but also the first class interpretation by Brian Kelly.
  
  All four tracks could easily be played on the radio without, not like in the case of Pivot, sounding like cheap "housewives rock".
  
  Those who look fondly back at "gypsy kyss" or have an open ear for Pink Floyd or the better grunge-combos, will certainly not be disappointed by "The Dream".
  
  

Setlist

Set list varies depending on venue requirements.

Average set: 60 minutes

Originals:

The Dream, Part I
The Dream, Part II
Wordsmith
Vitality
Wayward Preacher
Orden
Safe
Dr. Weird
F.O.E
Seven
Time
Change
Oceans
(And Many More Originals)

Current cover songs:

Tom Sawyer - Rush
Stockholm Syndrome - Muse
Got The Time - Anthrax
mother - danzig
mother - pink floyd
fake plastic trees
who can it be now - Men At Work
Day tripper - Beatles
synchronicity 2 - The Police
wasted years - Iron Maiden
the red - Chevelle
everlong - Foo Fighters
nutshell - AIC
got me wrong - AIC

Basic Requirements

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