The Slomski Brothers are a bit of an enigma on the Richmond music scene. While vaudeville music and burlesque performance have seen a big resurgence recently, I am fairly confident that nobody else is playing a steel drum and ukulele combo, which oddly enough works quite well. But the music itself is only part of what makes the Slomskis one of RVA’s best live acts for those who enjoy old timey music played at reasonable volumes; it’s their stage presence, well timed comedy, and general antics that make them such a joy.
Where did Van Slomski come from? Is it true that Van Slomski is german? And if Van is german, why is it not spelled Vann? Is Van(n) Jewish?
The name Van actually means “from” which is somewhat ironic since Van Slomski is what takes us “to” towns across the country. And truth be told, Van found us. He heard we were looking for a classy ride, and he came a knockin. Now from time to time, he’s a rockin!
Are there other musically inclined Slomskis who we have not heard of, now or in the past? Were you two destined to play the Uke and Pan, or could it have been tin whistle and timpani?
We have family help with the project all the time. We’ve invited them in to record on our both albums. Jack Slomski wrote and performed on “Looking for Score” which appears on our first album, “Found LP”. And our second album, “Travelin”, features Bob Slomski playing the chainsaw and Lee Slomski singing backup vocals. We also have had family join on stage. Recently in Asheville, Gus Slomski played accordion at our ABSFest performance to a packed crowd at the Orange Peel.
It’s funny that you should mention the tin whistle, as we feature several recorder solos on “Travelin.” Phil Slomski often plays his tympani at parties, but rarely brings them out to our shows. But you’ll sure know when those monsters have arrived.
How serious of an advantage does being a Slomski give one when acquiring free drinks?
Tell you what, why don’t we sit down at the bar at the Camel and discuss this one…
If prompted, would the Slomskis engage in fisticuffs with an opposing vaudeville act? Seriously, have you guys ever been in a scrap on the road, or locally? Whose ass would you mutually whoop if a whoopin could be delivered scot-free?
We were taught from early age to build bridges rather than walls. As Abe Lincoln said, the best way to get rid of an enemy is to make a friend. And that’s what we’re all about, bringing those good times. Trunk Slomski, however, has been known to get in a scuff or two, usually over a lady.
The Slomski Brothers are a bit of an enigma on the Richmond music scene. While vaudeville music and burlesque performance have seen a big resurgence recently, I am fairly confident that nobody else is playing a steel drum and ukulele combo, which oddly enough works quite well. But the music itself is only part of what makes the Slomskis one of RVA’s best live acts for those who enjoy old timey music played at reasonable volumes; it’s their stage presence, well timed comedy, and general antics that make them such a joy.
Where did Van Slomski come from? Is it true that Van Slomski is german? And if Van is german, why is it not spelled Vann? Is Van(n) Jewish?
The name Van actually means “from” which is somewhat ironic since Van Slomski is what takes us “to” towns across the country. And truth be told, Van found us. He heard we were looking for a classy ride, and he came a knockin. Now from time to time, he’s a rockin!
Are there other musically inclined Slomskis who we have not heard of, now or in the past? Were you two destined to play the Uke and Pan, or could it have been tin whistle and timpani?
We have family help with the project all the time. We’ve invited them in to record on our both albums. Jack Slomski wrote and performed on “Looking for Score” which appears on our first album, “Found LP”. And our second album, “Travelin”, features Bob Slomski playing the chainsaw and Lee Slomski singing backup vocals. We also have had family join on stage. Recently in Asheville, Gus Slomski played accordion at our ABSFest performance to a packed crowd at the Orange Peel.
It’s funny that you should mention the tin whistle, as we feature several recorder solos on “Travelin.” Phil Slomski often plays his tympani at parties, but rarely brings them out to our shows. But you’ll sure know when those monsters have arrived.
How serious of an advantage does being a Slomski give one when acquiring free drinks?
Tell you what, why don’t we sit down at the bar at the Camel and discuss this one…
If prompted, would the Slomskis engage in fisticuffs with an opposing vaudeville act? Seriously, have you guys ever been in a scrap on the road, or locally? Whose ass would you mutually whoop if a whoopin could be delivered scot-free?
We were taught from early age to build bridges rather than walls. As Abe Lincoln said, the best way to get rid of an enemy is to make a friend. And that’s what we’re all about, bringing those good times. Trunk Slomski, however, has been known to get in a scuff or two, usually over a lady.
How much busking do you do on the road? Do you prefer booked or busking gigs? Is busking even really a gig?
Yes, busking is certainly a real gig – it’s be known to bring us more happiness than a “booked” show. We don’t perform on the street in every city, only the ones that seem to welcome it. We’d have to say that we enjoy busking for three reasons: 1. To practice our songs. 2. To get beer money. 3. To meet a lot of people.
Geographically, what are the gigs that you have played the furthest away from Richmond? What’s the longest drive you’ve ever taken for a gig?
We once drove to a gig in Phoenix, Arizona by way of San Francisco. That was part of our 2010 cross-country tour where we performed in 16 cities in 16 days and drove over 7500 miles. Only longest drive was probably Lexington, KY to Alexandria, MN – we spent over 17 hours in the car to arrive at the gig with 5min to setup. And yes, we still had time to grab a drink.
What is the easiest way a potential patron can financially support The Slomski Brothers?
There are several ways to support us: 1. Buy us a drink 2. Help us play in your town. 3. Give us a place to swim and stay. 4. Buy us a drink. 5. Did we mention a drink?
