J GRGRY is one of the most enigmatic bands out of the Pacific Northwest. Recognized for their dark pop sound, electro-pop balladry and powerful stage show, this collection of seasoned road warriors, featuring Ryan Leyva, Robert Cheek and Steve Barrci, is led by singer Joe Gregory. While they’re currently a self-contained, well-oiled DIY machine, Gregory’s roots are actually in the “Major Label” system.
At 17 years of age, his band, the Drama, was signed to Geffen Records and was positioned to be the “next big thing.” But as the tale goes, their fate became entangled in label bureaucracy and staff shuffles, which led to their album being shelved and their eventual demise.
Battles with alcoholism and depression kept Gregory from creating until a fateful series of events brought him back from the edge. Now, sober, free of the major label system and surrounded by incredibly talented artists, his vision has been allowed to flourish.
It’s been a year since he formed J GRGRY, and the band has been pushing the limits of substance and style while securing sets with acts like Thunderpussy, Stal and Geographer, as well as getting rave reviews at Seattle’s Capitol Hill Block Party.
Independent radio station KEXP and legendary alt-rock station 107.7 The End have taken notice, spinning the single “Cave Birds” ahead of the February release of J GRGRY’s debut EP, Gold Teeth + Glass Eyes. And, with a West Coast tour planned, the band is looking forward to a breakout year.
For more, visit jgrgrymusic.com and facebook.com/jgrgrymusic.
