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Although the name implies you may not know the members of this band, Lesser Known Gentlemen are no strangers to the Reno music scene. Comprised of EJ Maldonado (vocals/guitar), Evan DeProsse (drums) and Wes Woods (bass/vocals). These former members were most notable for their stint in a local band called Ordinary which defunct in 2006. “The demise of Ordinary was nothing short of my own,” EJ admits, “My own ego and controlling behavior in the band caused strain and really lead to a lack of creativity to the music towards the tail end,” admitting to the typical growing pains of keeping a substantial band together.
EJ eventually treaded the Reno music scene on his own for about 2 ½ years when in 2007 he ran into The Spring Forward by Paying Forward Campaign. “I believe in community reinvestment…the Spring Forward Campaign was an opportunity to raise money and awareness, educate the community on what they can do and how their contribution leads to something tangible.” After a few years of valued self reflection, as a solo-acoustic artist EJ raised over $3,000 on his own playing numerous coffee shops and even holding charity fundraising parties at his own house.
After the passing of his father, in 2008, EJ had suggested the Solace Tree as a non-profit organization for the 3rd Annual Spring Forward Campaign in 2009 due to utilizing their services for his children to help cope with the loss. This drove EJ to participate again in the annual fundraising campaign; however, he missed the company and camaraderie that came with being in a band and he was writing music that required more people. “I could only think of two people that would truly compliment it,” EJ admits referring to Evan and Wes. Hence, Lesser Known Gentlemen was born and 2009 was tackled much like 2007 in the Spring Forward Campaign.
For more information on Lesser Known Gentlemen go to www.myspace.com/lesserknowngentlemen and find out more about Solace Tree at www.solacetree.org. Plus catch EJ Maldonado on 100.1 The X Saturdays 2p-6p and on 100.9 KRZQ Sundays 3p-8p.
Text by Melanie Flores
- Reno Passport
Discography
Sound of Guns and My Best Friend have been self-released as singles and both have received airplay on KRZQ 100.9FM... currently working on releasing more material.
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Bio
After playing in their share of bands, these three "gentlemen" came together for a second time with a different sound and direction. No more egos. Full collaboration. We all agree or we don't do it. These are just a few of the sayings that you will hear if you spend any time around EJ, Wes and Evan. They hold no punches when giving each other feedback and the result is Lesser Known Gentlemen. The music is laden with vocals and a strict regimen of bass and drums. They consider their music to be indie bluesy funk, but allow the spectators to decide for themselves. With influences ranging from Jeff Buckley to Tool, Massive Attack to Otis Redding, LKG is defining a new path of music for the masses. To see them live is an experience you won't soon forget. Catch a show, won't you?
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