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Blizzard has plenty of both.
From the first note, Blizzard will make you a believer. Frontman / guitarist / pianist Chris Leyva exudes the kind of confidence built on years of paying dues.
Hes the primary tunesmith here, but often shares co-writing credit with guitarist Gerardo Baladon.
Musical support comes from keyboardist Todd Newman and the excellent rhythm section of bassist Sebastian Reyes and drummer Mike Byron.
It all adds up to exciting rock n roll that draws influences from the best of each era, while maintaining a sound thats uniquely their own.
Founded in 2002, in its brief existence the band has covered a lot of ground. A short list of facts would include the fact that they were mentored by Danny Wilde of the Rembrandts, that the band was given its name by Beatles compatriot Tony Sheridan, and that the band roadied for indie rockers Convoy.
Also of note, they have appeared on several episodes of TV Series Veronica Mars, an episode of Fox Rox and performed live on both 91XFM and FM94.9.
Solo accomplishments include Leyvas appearance on an MTV show alongside Ryan Cabrera and Byrons endorsement by Chop Shop Drum Company. Perhaps even more impressive, the band appeared in the 2006 film Surrender Dorothy, alongside Diane Keaton.
To date Blizzard has released five albums, with the sixth, Black Cherry, due in early 2007.
The group has become a perennial presence on the southern California concert scene. In 2005 they played 175 concerts and 2006 looks set to easily exceed that. In music these days its all about the complete package, and these guys look like a band - That they can blast out hook filled songs is almost a bonus. Whether their sonic assault takes in slashing Clash-like guitar riffs or Beatle-esque harmonies, you can tell this is a group that lives and breathes rock n roll.
Flying just under the radar, Blizzard has been able to build a catalog and fan-base on their own terms, all with a passion and conviction that should get the attention of any discerning music fan. Yeah, rock n roll is elusive these days. But you know when youve found it.
- Alan Fleagle Poolside, Rio de Janeiro
Chris Leyva 26 September 2005 06:56