Dirac

In February 2004, a nameless funk ensemble of three players (Brian Zupruk – Bethlehem, PA; Dave Wiles – Ithaca, NY; and Jon Hirschberger – Ithaca, NY) performed a cover of Phish's "AC/DC Bag." After further rehearsal, composition, and the addition of keyboardist/singer Joshua Hatcher, the now quartet took on the title DIRAC.

After one year, the group was already known for playing numerous gigs at a variety of venues in Upstate New York and collaborating with several bands and artists. The band also independently released a 5-song EP, which was recorded in just two short sessions in bassist Brian Zupruk's living room.

The group has recently undergone personnel changes with the stepping-down of Dave Wiles, and the additions of percussionist Kenny Christianson – Ithaca, NY and guitarist Robin Schmidt – Ithaca, NY. Now tight and comfortable musically, the group has developed a distinct sound blending in morsels from the members' eclectic ranges of musical taste and repertoire. Listening to DIRAC, one will hear a melting pot of elements from artists like Soulive, Victor Wooten, Jimi Hendrix, The Roots, and Dave Matthews Band.

Despite the band's members studying at schools in various locations throughout the east coast (Robin attends Bard College, Josh attends the University of Rochester, Kenny attends SUNY Fredonia, Brian attends George Washington University, and Jon attends SUNY Geneseo), the band has shown an extremely high potential to be able to remain active. It spent the past two years gigging with numerous ensembles (including the legendary Charlie Hunter Trio, Sim Redmond, and Thousands of One), writing many new songs, and recording a full-length LP at Ithaca's REP Studio, released in December 2006. DIRAC's members are constantly working at their craft, individually and as a unit, and the band is constantly going in new directions to bring light to new musical ideas.

Watch for more shows this summer!