Music
The best kept secret in music
Press
Musically this band has their ducks in a row. They are obviously well seasoned musicians and have connected on a common level to create their music. Tony Bonjorno's electric violin is something you don't hear too often. Reminiscent of The Jayhawks and Blue Radio salted with some Bare Naked Ladies. Well written folk/altpop/country songs come together nicely and are a smooth relaxing listen. Anyone who knows The Jayhawks knows what I'm talking about. - westcoastindie.com
With an eclectic mix of instruments and alternative musical styles, the Seattle-area band 669’s release, Touch the Sky, is an engaging listen pretty much from start to finish. This isn’t your typical Northwest rock band: their sound, which includes electric violin and female backing vocals, at times seems reminiscent of the Welsh folk/rock of Richard and Mary Thompson. - onlinerock.com
Discography
Touch the Sky - debut LP including 13 original tracks
Monsters - scheduled for release in Jan, 2007
669 was honored to receive the 2005 Pride in the Arts Award for "Favorite Album/CD" for their debut release, Touch the Sky. In addition, 669 was honored by nominations in three other categories (Favorite Group, Pride Song - Touch the Sky, and Musical Artist of the Year).
Photos
Feeling a bit camera shy
Bio
669 entrance their audiences with songs about sex, love, death and politics. It might sound like typical pop material but these musicians reach between the everyday with a fresh perspective and a fresh sound. Starting off with the basic rock three piece (bass, drums and guitar), 669 add the electric violin as a lead instrument, providing the group with a distinctive flair. Their catchy tunes borrow from a variety of influences and genres to create music that has broad audience appeal.
669 began their journey to stage and recording with an inspiration by band founder, Tony Bonjorno. A gay man, Bonjorno had played electric violin and sang for years in “straight” bands. In 2003, he decided it was time to start something new, a project where he wouldn’t be a “token”. He recruited fellow lead singer/songwriter and bass player (and openly queer) Shane Rooks to join the bill. Bonjorno’s long-time friend and collaborator, drummer, Dean Moore (the “straight guy”), joined the ranks in 2004. After several false starts with other guitar players, Dylan, an out lesbian, signed on in early 2006 to complete the foursome.
Although some of their work is unabashedly queer, the writing and musicianship exhibited by 669 transcends simple labels. Anything is fair game for this fab foursome from typical pop fair like love and loss to more difficult topics like drag queens, suicide, drug addiction and politics. To hear their music is to love them.
Links
