Rock 'n' roll veteran Sean Kelley of The Samples, based in Boulder, Colorado, has seen change and an unrelenting tour schedule the past 20 years, but feels optimistic about the unknown road ahead.
I like where it's real. We've got new management
new ideas a new tour and untraditional plans that sort of depict me and us as a band Kelley said, noting that the group tours about seven months a year.
The Samples, who have seen numerous member switch-ups since their inception in 1986, played in Memorial Auditorium last Thursday.
Kelley, a self-taught musician and the only original member of the band, said he has shown perseverance and tenacity throughout his career, which he accredits to his staying even and grounded.
One thing I've learned over the years is there's still more to learn
Kelley said.
An eclectic mix of folk, country, bluegrass, reggae, rock, and jam band captures The Samples' sound. One highlight from their 17-album catalogue includes performances by Boyd Tinsely of Dave Matthews Band, who played on two albums.
The current lineup ' Kelley, drummer, Bill Mutchler, bassist, Jared Johnson, pianist, Karl Dietel and guitarist Dan Blondin ' have been together for the past three years.
We play new things and take in our collective influences
yet never stray from our original roots
said Kelley, who has written 98 percent of The Samples repertoire. The communication and chemistry between the current band is great.
Life on the road has enabled Kelley to cross paths with a myriad of musicians, including members of Phish and The Dead. He even toured with the surviving members of The Wailers.
A million things can happen in the course of one day and there's always something new
he said. We're always in constant motion and it's hard to find down time.
Kelley credits the longevity of the band to one thing ' the fans. By keeping to a grueling tour schedule, The Samples have acquired a large fan base in various pockets throughout the country, Kelley said. From New York to California, familiar faces pop up at their performances showing their support.
It's us and them. We serve them and I think they know it
he said.
Information about The Samples and dates for their upcoming shows can be found at www.thesamples.com.
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