The Gypsy Van

The Gypsy Van is more than just a band, more than just music, more than sarcasm and cleverly placed VANtastic puns. The Gypsy Van is on a psychedelic trip to change the world. Who needs another rock star on a soapbox? The Gypsy Van trip is just about being the decent human beings we should be, and being crazy enough to believe that things can and will change.

The Gypsy Van is like a painting that first catches your eye, and with each glance something else intrigues you. Their alternative, neo-psychedelic indie rock is a spinning collage of intelligent and quirky lyrics, complex but memorable melodic structure, unique vocals and distinctive musicianship as diverse as the members themselves.

The Gypsy Van began as the combined creativity of Aub Delane and Ponch Satrio. Along the trip, The Gypsy Van has picked up new passengers to complete the band-Guitarist Tal Raz, Drummer Mike McCraw, Bassist Shy Oren and Ty Robertson on keys, guitar and background vocals. Their music has something to say, but it won’t always be obvious. As Aub states,
“ There are hidden clues in the music that explain the meaning of the universe. Of course, we're not sure exactly where they are hidden yet, so we need more people to help us look.”

While not taking themselves too seriously, this dynamic band is making some serious sonic waves. A recent industry review describes their hard to describe style.
“I really don't know how I would classify this, or who I could begin to compare it with... All I know is I want to hear it again. I find myself swept up in all the imagery and the cool rhymes throughout… it is original, compelling…”

Although Trip To Psychedelphia is a their debut album together, the Gypsy Van members are no strangers to the stage or the music industry. Aub was born in Texas – Ponch in the jungle of Indonesia, and improbable paths brought them to Oklahoma City where The Gypsy Van was born in May of 2007. You wouldn’t know from their accents, but Ponch and Aub have much in common. Both share not only a love for music, but a passion for the plight of the poor and needy of the world – especially children.

Ponch, the mild mannered guitar virtuoso, recorded for Sony in Indonesia, and his live performances are featured on the 2005 AMI Awards Best Progressive Rock Production. He is well respected among guitarist elite. He is linked among names like Joe Satriani on Ron Thal’s Bumblefoot site and produces online video tutorials for several popular websites.

Aub, the eclectic type double A frontman, is a successful recording engineer, producer and performer who has toured the U.S. and fronted several regional bands. He has written and produced material for Disney, Six Flags, the Volvo Ocean Race and many other international clients.

Tal Raz is a native of Israel and brings more than just another accent to the group. Tal is a music performance major graduate and his diversity and skill have been featured in several bands both in his native country and in the United States.

Oklahoma native Mike McCraw is the kind of drummer who puts the Pro in professional. His resume includes national acts and successful regional bands, as well as being a busy session player.

Another session veteran, bassist Shy Oren, also originally from Israel, adds the skill of a double masters music major.

Ty Robertson is the oldest son of Aub, and has spent much of his life with an instrument in hand on a stage.

Yet it’s not the experience, it’s the chemistry between them that makes The Gypsy Van an unforgettable ride. Their debut CD, Trip to Psychedelphia is slated for independent release. Pre order sales begin November 15th 2007. Listen with caution. There is a great risk of becoming a VANdal!