Music
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Rockin’ Chair Money has a deliciously refreshing spin on music. Forming in 2007, singer-songwriter and guitarist Billy Farmer and pianist Evan Mullen began jamming together and RCM was born. Playing together for over a year before getting into the live show arena, the original two are now joined by bassist and mandolin player Kevin Dale and drummer and vocalist Dannie Mille.
So many labels have been thrown around in reference to their sound and style; the most obvious being bluegrass, but also roots rock, jam band, hippie jazz and even country. Each time they play a different vibe emerges. Farmer and Mullen made up their own label, “firgrass.” The quartet uniquely rearranges and presents covers of classic music – Woodie Guthrie, Bob Dylan, The Grateful Dead, Elton John and more. RCM may get a full minute in to a song before you realize it’s not an original, and once they slip into a jam the big grins start spreading.
“The jamming is second to none,” says Mullen through e-mail regarding why RCM is a must-see. “We let the song tell us how it goes.”
Rockin’ Chair Money shows are much like getting together with good friends, breaking out the instruments and just getting to it. It’s not something you sit down and plan. “Every show is different as far as the material and interaction between members,” shares bassist Kevin Dale.
With a recorded-live CD looming in April, summer festivals on tap, a two-day music festival in August to plan, and a trip to Nashville to attend the Americana Music convention coming in October, Rockin’ Chair Money is as busy as a guy selling $5 nitrous balloons at a Dead show. – Jennifer Johnson.
- The Weekly Volcano
Discography
Rockin' Chair Money (LP)
Photos
Bio
ABOUT THE BAND
Rockin’ Chair Money is the world’s first firgrass band. That’s right, Firgrass! A blend of folk, acoustic, rock & bluegrass with a little country chimed in. Rockin’ Chair Money’s entrancing groove-renditions of classic and original songs define their signature style.
Each member brings a parade of influences in the shared likes of Hal Ketchum, The Grateful Dead, Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Woody Guthrie & Hank Williams. Their collaboration pays homage to the American Songbook. Stephen Foster melodies linger in their long dance-jam solos just as cottonwood floats on a Fourth of July breeze.
Billy’s compositions are brought to life by the vivacious musicians in the group. Audiences feel familiar with these songs that are right at home next to classics we all hold so dear. Themes of strife, lost love, natural beauty, family & friendship are illuminated with pure, simple melody. Fantastic improvisation, group harmony and clever arrangement declare Rockin’ Chair Money’s originality.
BANDMEMBERS
Billy Farmer (vocals/guitar)
Billy is the composer of the original songs of Rockin’ Chair Money. He brings to the stage 35 years of performing as lead vocalist & acoustic guitarist. In 2006, he forged a partnership with pianist Evan Read-Mullins. Intuition for music and a band leader’s vision mark him as a distinctive artist in the Western Washington music scene.
Evan Read-Mullins (piano/vocals)
A lifetime pianist, Evan came to Tacoma to attend the University of Puget Sound. After marrying Caroline Read, they settled in Rosedale near Gig Harbor. His instinct for rhythmic & melodic development is impeccable. Evan’s soloing within a groove is magical. Friends love to dance while Evan plays the piano and pounds his sock-feet on the floor!
Kevin Dale (bass/mandolin/vocals)
Kevin’s bass playing is ever present as Rockin’ Chair Money develops their groove. From his vantage point in fusion jazz Kevin finds the most creative passing tones within the progression. His knowledge of sound and specific gear is vast. Kevin is devoted to his daughters and he works in the electronic field as a supplement to his music career.
Danny Millie (drums/vocals)
With his Levon Helm style pocket & his high-harmony vocal Danny gives pace to the band’s texture & sound. A lifelong concert-goer he can appreciate his role in the band. He truly is a “Tacoma Boy” who enjoys living life with his wife Janet.
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