Captain Gravel

The story of Captain Gravel is a bit convoluted. The origins go back to 2005 when 5 musicians came together in a string band ensemble to interpret the bluegrass sounds of Bill Monroe. This setting provided opportunities for the band to perform on such renowned Seattle stages as The Paramount Theatre, Seattle Town Hall, The Bagley Wright Theatre, The Mural Amphitheater, as well as club venues such as The Tractor Tavern and Nectar Lounge. Over time members of this original cast have moved on to various other things while the core of the group has remained solid.
Consisting of Chad Gibson on acoustic and electric guitars, Miller McNay on acoustic and electric mandolins, Ben Wieczorek on drums, and Chris Richmond on bass guitar, Captain Gravel is a groove heavy improvisational machine.
Much like the Grateful Dead, Captain Gravel began as an acoustic roots band and developed into an improvisational rock outfit. Other influences are the jamband titans Phish and groove jazz kings Medeski, Martin and Wood. Add in sounds of Americana, Afrobeat, Bebop and some heavy riff rock and you've got a uniquely weird brew of music. Jam music isn't for everyone, but for those who are willing to take the trip it's well worth the effort.