The Kalob Griffin Band (The KGB)

The Kalob Griffin Band (The KGB) is a Philadelphia based five-piece Americana rock band that formed in 2009, most commonly known for their impromptu shows and the allegiance of their community driven fanbase.[1]

Kalob Griffin Band
OriginPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
GenresAmericana
Alternative country
Indie folk
Folk
Bluegrass
Years active2009–present
Websitewww.kalobgriffinband.com
MembersKalob Griffin
Rob Dwyer
Eric Lawry
John Hildenbrand

History

The Kalob Griffin Band began when frontman, Kalob Griffin met, current lead guitarist/mandolin/banjoist, Rob Dwyer at a house party where the two attended Penn State University Pennsylvania State University together in 2009.[2] The two linked with other college friends, and went on to perform to packed venues all over State College, PA. The success inspired Griffin and Dwyer to continue a full-time career as musicians post college, and after many band transformations, the "KGB" secured its lineup in 2011. The current folk rock quintet includes: Eric Lawry on drums/backup vocals, John Hildenbrand on keys/backup vocals, and Jonathan Colvson on electric bass.

Their early success started with several local shows and a live session on a classic rock show at Penn State’s student-run radio station, WKPS. The band landed a weekly gig at State College’s Café 210 West, opened up for Matt Pond PA, embarked on two national tours as the supporting band for emerging British singer/songwriterBobby Long (ATO Records), released a self-titled EP,[3] and in 2012, has been touring as their own outfit.

Musical career

They released their first full length, "June Found a Gun" in 2012, that caused constant touring and new fans.[4] They have released tracks from their forthcoming EP, "Full Love," mixed by Bill Morarity (Dr. Dog, Man Man) and mastered by Greg Calbi (Alabama Shakes, Bruce Springsteen) of Sterling Sound.[5]

The Kalob Griffin Band has played to crowds of thousands, including at WXPN Music Festival in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and the Mile High Music Festival in Denver, Colorado.[6] The band has had radio airplay across the country and has played over 150 shows, including major festival appearances and gigs along the east coast. The lyrical style is similar to that of old-fashioned and generational narratives of Neil Young and Bruce Springsteen. The Kalob Griffin Band has been compared to contemporary artists such as Deer Tick (band) and Whiskeytown.[7] The band has had profile features in the Herald-Sun[8] and Fly Magazine.[9]

Festival appearances include WXPN Music Festival,[10] Mile High Music Festival, Musikfest, Susquehanna Breakdown [11] and the Dewey Beach, Delaware Music Conference.[12]

In 2011, the Kalob Griffin Band was nominated for The Deli Magazine Philadelphia "Emerging Acts of 2011"[13] and WSTW "Best EP Homey" Award and "Best Song Homey" Award. Within the first couple of months of 2012, they were awarded with the Tri State Indie "Best Philadelphia Artist" Award.[14]

The KGB Family

Often during shows, fans are heard chanting "KGB, KGB", a mantra attached to the "KGB Family" http://www.kalobgriffinband.com/kgbfamily/. The band credits its early success to the devotion of family, friends, and fans who packed venues and followed the band through their numerous tours. This allegiance swiftly moved their success into the Philadelphia music scene, and the band continues to operate as a large family dynamic, honoring its roots. http://www.tristateindie.com/johnny-brendas-104-the-kalob-griffin-band-driftwood-chelsea-mitchell/

Members
  • Kalob Griffin - lead vocals, guitar
  • Eric Lawry - drums, vocals
  • Rob Dwyer - lead guitar, mandolin, banjo
  • Jonathan Colvosn - upright and electric bass
  • John Hildenbrand- keys, backup vocals

Discography

EPs
  • Kalob Griffin Band (2011)
  • "Full Love" (2014)

Albums
  • "June Found a Gun" (2012)
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References
  1. http://www.tristateindie.com/johnny-brendas-104-the-kalob-griffin-band-driftwood-chelsea-mitchell/
  2. "Kalob Griffin Band Keeping It Small", 2011
  3. State In The Real "Kalob Griffin Band Announces Recording of Debut Album" 2011
  4. https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/going-out-guide-northern-virginia/2014/05/06/5d13bfae-cfbc-11e3-a714-be7e7f142085_story.html
  5. http://thekey.xpn.org/2013/12/20/the-kalob-griffin-band-will-bring-new-tunes-and-holiday-vibes-to-world-cafe-live-tomorrow/
  6. "Plan B Hit Big Time" 2010
  7. "Interview with the Kalob Griffin Band" 2011
  8. Herald-Sun"Kalob Griffin Band Keeping It Small" 2011
  9. Fly Magazine"Kalob Griffin Band" 2012
  11. http://upstatelive.com/2014/05/07/susquehanna-breakdown-may-10th-at-the-pavilion-at-montage-mountain/
  13. / Best of Philly 2011 Poll.
  14. http://www.tristateindie.com/uncategorized/tri-state-indie-music-awards-award-results/
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