Gypsy Chief Goliath

Al ‘Yeti’ Bones and his skeleton crew in Gypsy Chief Goliath got the brews flowin’ and the eyes glowin’ down at the dingy dungeon we all have come to know and love as the Coach & Horses. These electric gypsies’ brand of stoner rock/metal is a little more eclectic than the standard fare of those within that genre. Kicking things in with the monster-groove of ‘Black Samurai,’ the band got their faithful followers and friends bobbing heads to the doomy rhythms. The guys continued to churn out swamp and sludge through the night as their harmonica player Brodie brought the demonic blues aspect to the fold with his Sabbath ‘wizardry.’ Yeah, if you like the real early heavy blues rock of Black Sabbath coated with an added crispy and metallic crunch, you’ll dig the sounds of Gypsy Chief Goliath. Sidenote: A surprise and unlikely rendition of Alice Cooper’s “Go To Hell” was a highlight mid-set. - Windsor Zene

Although it sounds like a bearded indie rock band from the Himalayas, The Yeti Agency is the natural progression (and in many ways, extension) of local Windsorite and heavy metal legend Al “The Yeti” Bones (ne Petrovich). Al has been a part of Windsor’s heavy metal scene for just over a decade now, starring in such bands as Mister Bones and Georgian Skull, as well as being a part of international metal sensation The Mighty Nimbus (which featured members of Sixty Watt Shamen) and touring alongside such metal heavyweights as Entombed, Crowbar and Pro-Pain. His latest project – and perhaps strongest and most cohesive to date – is the stoner rock meets Motorhead crunch of Gypsy Chief Goliath.

A graduate of Fanshawe College’s Music Industry and Arts Program, specializing in Audio Engineering Production and Music Business & Management, Petrovich was also a protege of sorts under Mia Tyler (yes, Steven Tyler of Aerosmith’s other daughter), whose launching her own management team ONR, last year. The Yeti Agency, under Petrovich’s direction, is designed to help launch independent acts (and not necessarily just metal) or offer advice and guidance (as well as help sorting out) on such things as booking tours, dealing with labels, picking the right studios, press liasons, etc. all drawn from Al and ONR’s vast pool of contacts. He’s already got a small stable underway, including fellow Windsorites ASK, Arkayic Revolt, Devilz By Definition and Reasons Lost, as well as A Necessary Evil, Pigeon Park, The Polymorphines, not to mention Al’s own project, Gypsy Chief Goliath.

There’s not many people in Windsor – and perhaps the industry – with as many battle scars as Al, but whose passion, knowledge and insight has still remained as focused, sincere and genuine as it has. And he is ready to take all the achievements, advances, mistakes, tragedies and, ultimately, triumphs, and use them to help guide not only his newest project’s career, but those that are willing to take a chance and simply listen.

Speaking of Gypsy Chief Goliath, they recently released part one of an online Video Documentary series, Gypsy Chief Goliath: In The Studio, chronicling the adventure the band undertook to record their newest album. They travelled to the Muskokas where they turned bandmate Brodie Stevenson’s cottage into a recording studio. Wondering why you haven’t heard the album yet? Because they’re making the album right now. As in, this is a reality show documenting them recording their new album up north. How intimate and awesome is that for fans of the band?

Here’s the first part, chronicling January 27-29 of the sessions, but before that, here’s a quick video for their song “Black Samurai”.
- Windsor Zene

Although it sounds like a bearded indie rock band from the Himalayas, The Yeti Agency is the natural progression (and in many ways, extension) of local Windsorite and heavy metal legend Al “The Yeti” Bones (ne Petrovich). Al has been a part of Windsor’s heavy metal scene for just over a decade now, starring in such bands as Mister Bones and Georgian Skull, as well as being a part of international metal sensation The Mighty Nimbus (which featured members of Sixty Watt Shamen) and touring alongside such metal heavyweights as Entombed, Crowbar and Pro-Pain. His latest project – and perhaps strongest and most cohesive to date – is the stoner rock meets Motorhead crunch of Gypsy Chief Goliath.

A graduate of Fanshawe College’s Music Industry and Arts Program, specializing in Audio Engineering Production and Music Business & Management, Petrovich was also a protege of sorts under Mia Tyler (yes, Steven Tyler of Aerosmith’s other daughter), whose launching her own management team ONR, last year. The Yeti Agency, under Petrovich’s direction, is designed to help launch independent acts (and not necessarily just metal) or offer advice and guidance (as well as help sorting out) on such things as booking tours, dealing with labels, picking the right studios, press liasons, etc. all drawn from Al and ONR’s vast pool of contacts. He’s already got a small stable underway, including fellow Windsorites ASK, Arkayic Revolt, Devilz By Definition and Reasons Lost, as well as A Necessary Evil, Pigeon Park, The Polymorphines, not to mention Al’s own project, Gypsy Chief Goliath.

There’s not many people in Windsor – and perhaps the industry – with as many battle scars as Al, but whose passion, knowledge and insight has still remained as focused, sincere and genuine as it has. And he is ready to take all the achievements, advances, mistakes, tragedies and, ultimately, triumphs, and use them to help guide not only his newest project’s career, but those that are willing to take a chance and simply listen.

Speaking of Gypsy Chief Goliath, they recently released part one of an online Video Documentary series, Gypsy Chief Goliath: In The Studio, chronicling the adventure the band undertook to record their newest album. They travelled to the Muskokas where they turned bandmate Brodie Stevenson’s cottage into a recording studio. Wondering why you haven’t heard the album yet? Because they’re making the album right now. As in, this is a reality show documenting them recording their new album up north. How intimate and awesome is that for fans of the band?

Here’s the first part, chronicling January 27-29 of the sessions, but before that, here’s a quick video for their song “Black Samurai”.
- Windsor Zene

Stats

Official Release: December 2011

Produced By: Alex Petrovich

Recorded At: A Muskoka cottage.



2011 has been the best year for many local bands, and Gypsy Chief Goliath is no exception. Technically, the only member who calls Windsor home is lead vocalist/producer Al ‘Yeti Bones’ Petrovich but I know all of the band’s members hold this town close to their hearts, and they probably play live here more than any other city. This band never ceases to amaze me, whether it be their alcohol-fuelled, rowdy live shows or this one-of-a-kind debut album. “It’s A Walk In The Mist” was definitely one of the most anticipated albums of the year, as the band was waiting for a few things to fall into place to make sure the release was a great success. Rest assured, it has been well worth the wait and I honestly can’t think of a local band more deserving of recognition. Now let’s get right into the album itself.

“It’s A Walk In The Mist” starts off with the band’s first single “Black Samurai”, a definite crowd favourite. A slow, heavy, grooving track that never fails to induce head banging. Great guitar solo from lead guitarist Dave Ljubanovich with lots of wah, accompanied by the subtle but essential harmonica, courtesy of Brodie Stevenson.

The second track on the album is “The Return”, which in my opinion features some of Al Petrovich’s best vocals on the disc, which is saying a lot. He does a great job of taking his vocal influences and putting his own unique spin on it. Reminiscent of old school blues and jazz singers such as Howlin’ Wolf and Louis Armstrong.

“Cold Hand Of Death” is next in line, and features deep, groovy bass by John Kendrick. This song is about the inevitability of dying, or so I gather from the lyrics: “When you’ve reached the decision to where you want to live / You know the reaper will follow with the cold hand of death.”

One of the newer tracks on the album, “We Are The Devil’s Thieves”, is a straight-up hard rock track which features banjo? I know it doesn’t make sense to read that, but it really does work in moderation, and they did a great job incorporating a bluegrass instrument into such a rockin’ tune.

“Dreaming In Color” features more of Brodie’s “harmonica harmonies” which is really a staple in G.C.G.’s overall sound. I find Al’s vocals on this track to be a hybrid of Neil Fallon (Clutch) and Brent Hinds (Mastodon), whether it was intentional or not. It really is a great asset to have multiple vocal styles, and this is what sets him apart from most.

“Elephant In The Room” is another classic G.C.G. track, which they have been playing live for as long as I can remember. It is such a heavy hitting song that you can’t help but move to the beat. It’s also worth mentioning that the idea for the album title “It’s A Walk In The Mist” came from lyrics in this song.

“Intermission” is just what it sounds like, and I can only assume they put it on the disc to separate it into two halves. A fun, quirky, mash of organ and Celtic-style wizardry.

The one song that you wouldn’t expect to be on this album is “Chapter Fire”, throwing listeners a fantastic curveball. It is a little outside the box for this band, but a great song nonetheless. It actually shows that Gypsy Chief Goliath can’t and shouldn’t be put in a box, and that’s ultimately what a great band should be all about.

The title “Out Of Control” says it all about the next track. By far the fastest and most aggressive song on the album. Absolutely stellar performance from drummer Adam Saiti. It’s the kind of song that if you listen to it while driving you might get pulled over for speeding.

“Course Of Time” is one of the few tracks I hadn’t heard until I obtained a copy of the album, and it quickly became my favorite song of the lot. It’s a mellow, beautiful masterpiece that was put together perfectly. The song musicians work their whole career to create.

“Listen To Static” has always been at the top of my list for overall well-rounded songs from the group. It takes you in many directions, from “hard as fuck,” to “groove” to “bluesy rock.”

Last but definitely not least, what album would be complete without a sing-a-long! Perfectly placed within the album as the grand finale, Saint Covens Tavern always gets the crowd going with its Irish feel. Whether you find yourself at one of their live performances, or listening to the album in your car on the way to work at 6:15 in the morning, you can’t help but raise your beer (or coffee) and yell “Hey!” in time with the song. It’s the most appropriate way to end this absolutely brilliant album. “Whoa, whoa, whoa! Whoa oh oh oh !!!”

It has been my pleasure to review, in my opinion, not only the best local album of 2011, but the best album of any band this year. If you don’t already own this work of art, please buy it and support this band. Also, a new DVD is to be released in the near future. The rumour is that they are already starting to write the - Windsor Zene

Stats

Official Release: December 2011

Produced By: Alex Petrovich

Recorded At: A Muskoka cottage.



2011 has been the best year for many local bands, and Gypsy Chief Goliath is no exception. Technically, the only member who calls Windsor home is lead vocalist/producer Al ‘Yeti Bones’ Petrovich but I know all of the band’s members hold this town close to their hearts, and they probably play live here more than any other city. This band never ceases to amaze me, whether it be their alcohol-fuelled, rowdy live shows or this one-of-a-kind debut album. “It’s A Walk In The Mist” was definitely one of the most anticipated albums of the year, as the band was waiting for a few things to fall into place to make sure the release was a great success. Rest assured, it has been well worth the wait and I honestly can’t think of a local band more deserving of recognition. Now let’s get right into the album itself.

“It’s A Walk In The Mist” starts off with the band’s first single “Black Samurai”, a definite crowd favourite. A slow, heavy, grooving track that never fails to induce head banging. Great guitar solo from lead guitarist Dave Ljubanovich with lots of wah, accompanied by the subtle but essential harmonica, courtesy of Brodie Stevenson.

The second track on the album is “The Return”, which in my opinion features some of Al Petrovich’s best vocals on the disc, which is saying a lot. He does a great job of taking his vocal influences and putting his own unique spin on it. Reminiscent of old school blues and jazz singers such as Howlin’ Wolf and Louis Armstrong.

“Cold Hand Of Death” is next in line, and features deep, groovy bass by John Kendrick. This song is about the inevitability of dying, or so I gather from the lyrics: “When you’ve reached the decision to where you want to live / You know the reaper will follow with the cold hand of death.”

One of the newer tracks on the album, “We Are The Devil’s Thieves”, is a straight-up hard rock track which features banjo? I know it doesn’t make sense to read that, but it really does work in moderation, and they did a great job incorporating a bluegrass instrument into such a rockin’ tune.

“Dreaming In Color” features more of Brodie’s “harmonica harmonies” which is really a staple in G.C.G.’s overall sound. I find Al’s vocals on this track to be a hybrid of Neil Fallon (Clutch) and Brent Hinds (Mastodon), whether it was intentional or not. It really is a great asset to have multiple vocal styles, and this is what sets him apart from most.

“Elephant In The Room” is another classic G.C.G. track, which they have been playing live for as long as I can remember. It is such a heavy hitting song that you can’t help but move to the beat. It’s also worth mentioning that the idea for the album title “It’s A Walk In The Mist” came from lyrics in this song.

“Intermission” is just what it sounds like, and I can only assume they put it on the disc to separate it into two halves. A fun, quirky, mash of organ and Celtic-style wizardry.

The one song that you wouldn’t expect to be on this album is “Chapter Fire”, throwing listeners a fantastic curveball. It is a little outside the box for this band, but a great song nonetheless. It actually shows that Gypsy Chief Goliath can’t and shouldn’t be put in a box, and that’s ultimately what a great band should be all about.

The title “Out Of Control” says it all about the next track. By far the fastest and most aggressive song on the album. Absolutely stellar performance from drummer Adam Saiti. It’s the kind of song that if you listen to it while driving you might get pulled over for speeding.

“Course Of Time” is one of the few tracks I hadn’t heard until I obtained a copy of the album, and it quickly became my favorite song of the lot. It’s a mellow, beautiful masterpiece that was put together perfectly. The song musicians work their whole career to create.

“Listen To Static” has always been at the top of my list for overall well-rounded songs from the group. It takes you in many directions, from “hard as fuck,” to “groove” to “bluesy rock.”

Last but definitely not least, what album would be complete without a sing-a-long! Perfectly placed within the album as the grand finale, Saint Covens Tavern always gets the crowd going with its Irish feel. Whether you find yourself at one of their live performances, or listening to the album in your car on the way to work at 6:15 in the morning, you can’t help but raise your beer (or coffee) and yell “Hey!” in time with the song. It’s the most appropriate way to end this absolutely brilliant album. “Whoa, whoa, whoa! Whoa oh oh oh !!!”

It has been my pleasure to review, in my opinion, not only the best local album of 2011, but the best album of any band this year. If you don’t already own this work of art, please buy it and support this band. Also, a new DVD is to be released in the near future. The rumour is that they are already starting to write the - Windsor Zene

BIO: "Born from the ashes of their old bands, these musicians helped pave ways in the Canadian stoner rock scene. Now serious about making no b.s rock and roll music the members: AL the Yeti Bones ( doom bands: Georgian Skull, The Mighty Nimbus, Mister Bones), John (KEEF) Chris (Salem Saints), Dave (Blood Runs Cold) and Adam (Georgian Skull) have decided to form a pure rock and roll band that dances on the edge of their stoner rock roots as well. When Gypsy Chief Goliath officially became a band, the vibe was electric. This band is going to kick your butt. Now loaded with a harmonica player full time in Brodie Stevenson, the band is hot and in the pocket. They are tight with 70's laced grooves, integrated jazz rhythms, with blistering solos, and harmonies the likes which only Thin Lizzy could provide. After being a band officially for one year, the band has already performed with some of the biggest acts in their genre, ie...Cancer Bats, Blood Ceremony, Sons of Otis, Bison BC, Barnburner, Fiftywatthead, White Cowbell Oklahoma to name a few. GCG also has a debut album being recorded in the winter currently, alongside their long anticipated DVD documentary "Its A Walk in the Mist", the band seems to be carrying themselves in the way that depicts them exactly the way they really are. RAW and the real deal. This is a group that is made up of, perseverance, power, experience, most of all drive. This could seriously be your favorite band ever."


Al "The Yeti" Bones (a.k.a Alex Petrovich) is a musician first and foremost. He has been apart of the global Stoner Rock scene since 1999. In '99 he formed Mister Bones, released 4 albums under the Montreal record label Obskure Sombre Records. Was featured in the book "Gigs From Hell", toured North America from 2000-2004. In 2004, he joined members of Sixty Watt Shaman in a new band called The Mighty Nimbus. He permanently replaced Erik Larson (Alabama Thunder Pussy) on guitar. After touring across the U.S in 2004 included was a performance at the Emissions From The Monolith Festival in Youngstown Ohio, that included the St. Vitus reuion between The Hidden Hand set, and Debris Inc. (which also featured Jimmy Bower on drums from Down.) A year later in '05 The Mighty Nimbus would travel yet again across the U.S this time in support of three legendary metal bands: Entombed, Crowbar, and Pro-Pain. This was for Philadelphia's Candleight Records U.S.A. Released two albums.

In 2006, he formed the beast that was, Georgian Skull and was signed to Italy's Scarlet Records, distributed globally through SPV Records (Motorhead) via Scarlet. Scarlet was recently inked a deal here in North America with Entertainment ONE and Georgian Skull will be officially available this year in North America to buy. 55 date tour across North America, that lead them into news across the web regarding what they were doing. Quickly the band regrouped and booked 3 months of touring across Canada. Released one official album which featured the cover art by Vince Locke (artist for Cannibal Corpse, Cephalic Carnage and the Histrory of Violence graphic novel.) A member went to rehab and the band disbanded from there.

In 2009 he formed present band Gypsy Chief Goliath. Unsigned but best outfit to date. 6 members including a harmonica player, and a new record soon to be released under a new label signing as well.

He is also a graduate from Music Industry & Arts program from London Ontario, which specializes in Audio Engineering, Production, and Music Business and Management.

Alex credits Mia Tyler with the initial idea of starting a management company together and in the initial phases helped bring Alex along quickly through networks.

Al often gets asked to feature his voice or guitar abilities on many other bands' records, some include:

Carcharadon (Italy)
Galactus (Moncton N.B)
Ball Harness (Toronto)
Sleeping Beard (Windsor)
Blood Runs Cold (Toronto)

He has also been written about in magazines such as: Decibel, Metal Maniacs, Hit Parader, Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles, Terrorizer, Metal Hammer, Unrestrained to name a few.

Do you want to know more, here is a interview I did with Al "The Yeti" Bones (a.k.a Alex Petrovich).


1. You are described as a Canadian Stoner Rock Supergroup, do you like that tag? Doesn't that create a certain amount of pressure on the band?

The Yeti: We've been dealing with a lot of pressure constantly. Having six guys in the same band, everyone lives in separate cities, all of us pushing each other to perform, and write to the best of our abilities makes dealing with outside stress and pressure easier. The pressure doesn't come from us being Canadian or calling ourselves a Supergroup. I think you're right though, it does create a bit of pressure on the band, but it also adds to our value and worth as a collective. I think the pressure is internal. I know I put a lot of pressure on myself knowing that life is only so long a - Doommantia

Today's New Band To Burn One To is Gypsy Chief Golith

I found these guys while browsing through The Obelisk's forums. I couldn't keep this to myself, I had to share. They're heavy as fuck. Fans of Sixty Watt Shamen and Might Nimbus take note, this is right up your alley.
Born from the ashes of their old bands, these musicians helped pave ways in the Canadian stoner rock scene. Now serious about making no bullshit music the members: AL the Yeti Bones (Georgian Skull, The Mighty Nimbus, Mister Bones), John (KEEF), Chris (Salem Saints), Dave (Blood Runs Cold) , Adam (Georgian Skull), and Brodie all have decided to form a pure rock and roll band that dances on the edge of their stoner rock roots as well. When Gypsy Chief Goliath officially became a band, the vibe was electric. This band is going to kick your ass! More to come...

Consisting of members: AL The YETI BONES (of Doom/Stoner icons: The Mighty Nimbus, Georgian Skull, Mister Bones), Dave Ljubanovich (Blood Runs Cold), Chris Coleiro (Salem Saints), John Kendrick (Keef), Adam Saitti (Georgian Skull), and Brodie Stevenson. This band is a hard hitting, 6 piece outfit that plays original blues on steroids. Thus giving the listener a piece of history combined with the power of today. Gypsy Chief was formed last year, by the men in the Canadian music scene that had had enough witnessing for one day, how music has really changed and Canada's music scene has gone "south" in more ways then one. The previous bands together have an astronomical amount of accomplishments and success that has helped them pave their way in this business. The Yeti Bones has been on labels: Candlelight Records U.S.A (Philadelphia), Threeman Recordings (Sweden), Scarlet Records (Italy), Obskure Sombre Records (Montreal, Canada), R&R Express (Russia), and Dental Records (Sweden). While Keef's debut record was just released on Pychedoomelic Records this year. Earlier last year, Salem Saints traveled to Chicago ( with Al Bones sharing guitar duties with Chris Coleiro) to record their debut record at Electrical Audio with legendary Engineer, Steve Albini. When that record was never released, Chris and AL jumped ship and got together with Dave from Blood Runs Cold and start what we know now as, GYPSY CHIEF GOLIATH. this band is one of the best secrets in Canada, but will take literally no time to get the name out there, as all their previous bands have a wide fanbase, and the group today, is on point like never before. The new debut record and DVD documentary will be released later this year. !!!
Currently they have a demo to download and they have one video (which can be viewed below) but it's enough to fill a small void and like crack, makes you want more. - Heavy Planet

Today's New Band To Burn One To is Gypsy Chief Golith

I found these guys while browsing through The Obelisk's forums. I couldn't keep this to myself, I had to share. They're heavy as fuck. Fans of Sixty Watt Shamen and Might Nimbus take note, this is right up your alley.
Born from the ashes of their old bands, these musicians helped pave ways in the Canadian stoner rock scene. Now serious about making no bullshit music the members: AL the Yeti Bones (Georgian Skull, The Mighty Nimbus, Mister Bones), John (KEEF), Chris (Salem Saints), Dave (Blood Runs Cold) , Adam (Georgian Skull), and Brodie all have decided to form a pure rock and roll band that dances on the edge of their stoner rock roots as well. When Gypsy Chief Goliath officially became a band, the vibe was electric. This band is going to kick your ass! More to come...

Consisting of members: AL The YETI BONES (of Doom/Stoner icons: The Mighty Nimbus, Georgian Skull, Mister Bones), Dave Ljubanovich (Blood Runs Cold), Chris Coleiro (Salem Saints), John Kendrick (Keef), Adam Saitti (Georgian Skull), and Brodie Stevenson. This band is a hard hitting, 6 piece outfit that plays original blues on steroids. Thus giving the listener a piece of history combined with the power of today. Gypsy Chief was formed last year, by the men in the Canadian music scene that had had enough witnessing for one day, how music has really changed and Canada's music scene has gone "south" in more ways then one. The previous bands together have an astronomical amount of accomplishments and success that has helped them pave their way in this business. The Yeti Bones has been on labels: Candlelight Records U.S.A (Philadelphia), Threeman Recordings (Sweden), Scarlet Records (Italy), Obskure Sombre Records (Montreal, Canada), R&R Express (Russia), and Dental Records (Sweden). While Keef's debut record was just released on Pychedoomelic Records this year. Earlier last year, Salem Saints traveled to Chicago ( with Al Bones sharing guitar duties with Chris Coleiro) to record their debut record at Electrical Audio with legendary Engineer, Steve Albini. When that record was never released, Chris and AL jumped ship and got together with Dave from Blood Runs Cold and start what we know now as, GYPSY CHIEF GOLIATH. this band is one of the best secrets in Canada, but will take literally no time to get the name out there, as all their previous bands have a wide fanbase, and the group today, is on point like never before. The new debut record and DVD documentary will be released later this year. !!!
Currently they have a demo to download and they have one video (which can be viewed below) but it's enough to fill a small void and like crack, makes you want more. - Heavy Planet