Biography
Mixing a blend of intricate compositions, catchy songs and fun stage antics, all with an exploratory attitude towards group improvisation, an evening with Boston-based "Neo-Jam Band" Mondo Gecko is always an adventure. The group's funk rock sound infuses elements of electronica, space grass, reggae, and jazz fusion.
"One of my favorite things about Mondo Gecko is how different our backgrounds and musical tastes are," says founding member Luke Stratton. "There is no use in hiding it: we all grew up seeing and listening to jam bands, and that's what we are: a jam band. But we also have very eclectic influences... and each member brings their own unique flavor to the table."
The guitar styles of Brad Garone and Luke Stratton contrast and combine, fusing together throughout jams and compositions alike. Bringing a strong sense of jazz theory, lighting fast chops, and distinct "Garone-Tone", Brad's guitar playing really catches the ear, while Luke's funky rhythms, soaring leads, and psychedelic wizardry flush out the band's sound. Keyboardist Eric McEwen's open minded approach injects elements of classical, blues, folk, and bluegrass. Bassist Andrew Walley's heavy jazz fusion and funk influences radiate a pulse and energy that drives the band's live sound, and when combined with drummer Aaron Morey's loose, exploratory rhythms, tight funk grooves, and bangin' disco house beats, they push the ensemble into overdrive. Add in three-part vocal harmonies and an innate desire to expand some minds and shake some booties and you've got MONDO GECKO.
The band's composition and song writing repertoire runs the gamut of musical styles allowing a level of adaptation and transformation not commonly found in today's live music scene. Funk, bluegrass, reggae, techno...even classical - all can be found within one show. Story driven lyrics, unpredictable teases, and segues are also common place. One such example is the "Jam-opera" Poncho - a story of a space alien stranded on Earth who travels from club to club checking out the planet's different styles of music.
The group's musical educations have helped open pathways for a higher level of communication. "These guys are skilled enough not to get lost in the ethereal when they improvise," says Janie Franz of Skope Magazine. "Mondo Gecko produces a dynamic, fun live show...There are fans out there waiting for them."
Mondo Gecko strives to make their events more than just concerts; their concern for ambiance is apparent as soon as you walk through the doors. Their black-lit merch booth, neon stickers and glow-in-the-dark Geckos have become visual signatures. Tapestries, mood lighting, and even smoke-filled bubble machines are common place. "We really try to play rooms that not only sound great, but look cool as well," says Eric. "If they don't look cool, we make them look cool!"
The band also stresses the importance of community, and their "fans are family" motto is their modus operandi. Their road manager, their merch girls, their street team - they all started as fans. Shedding the old dichotomy of a band and its "fanbase", Mondo Gecko instead considers the audience part of the show. Live painting, interpretive dance, artistic photography, and of course live recording are not only allow but encouraged.
Instrumentation
Luke Stratton - Guitar, Vocals
Eric McEwen - Keys, Vocals
Brad Garone - Guitar, Mandolin, Vocals
Andrew Walley - Bass
Aaron Morey - Drums
Discography