Reza Kaleel & The Third Tree

Bio – Reza Kaleel, Singer/Songwriter

A songwriter for the past 15 years, Reza has been involved with music since early childhood. Initially influenced heavily by the great rock guitarists of the past 40 years ( Jimi Hendrix, Jimmy Page, Mark Knopfler, Eddie Van Halen, Lindsey Buckingham, Eric Clapton, and many others) Reza started his writing, recording, and live performance career as lead guitarist with Texas bands Sofa Kingdom , Things Between, and Last of Our Kind.

Though his vocal duties were limited to singing backup in a band context, Reza quickly began to realize that stepping up to the mic would be the best way to develop an audience for his original lyrics and songs. In 2005, Reza released a solo EP under the performing name “The Third Tree”. Influenced heavily from an early age by songwriters like Sting, James Taylor, Lyle Lovett, U2, and Dave Matthews, The Third Tree EP reflects a focus on quality song writing and strong hooks associated with many of Reza’s influences.

Initially uncomfortable with the idea of striking out alone as a singer/
songwriter, but eager to promote the EP, Reza called up a group of active Texas musicians from other bands to gauge their interest in forming a side group based around his original songs. After a short period of rehearsals with solid musicians, The Third Tree began performing regionally to enthusiastic audiences. As the “side project” took on a life of its own and gig offers became more numerous, it became clear that consistent band bookings would be a challenge given the busy touring schedules of the musicians involved. It seemed that the path to solo singer-songwriter status would be unavoidable.

Currently Reza plays regular solo performance dates, as well as occasional full band shows as “The Third Tree”. He can also be seen as part of a singer/
songwriter duo, playing shows with longtime collaborator - an extraordinary songwriter and vocalist - Laura Marie (www.lauramariemusic.com). While his focus is primarily on promoting his original songs at venues that promote original live music, Reza can often be heard performing eclectic sets that include a range of rock, pop, and jazz covers from classic to
contemporary.

More information at www.myspace.com/thethirdtree