Like dark matter–that unobservable force that astrophysicists believe holds the universe together–the “It Factor” is phantom magic that few are fortunate enough to possess. Those who possess this magical trait attract our attention and influence us without trying. They are the ones that inadvertently become game-changers, igniting movements and trends like The Grateful Dead and Ken Kesey did in the sixties. I am not a big fan of The Dead, but I cannot deny that together–with the help of psychedelics–they made an enormously colorful peace sign-shaped crater smack dab in the center of American culture. Though they only ever had one Top 10 hit, Jerry Garcia’s charismatic personality was the keystone in the archway of the door that millions of Dead-Heads first walked through. Charisma – that is the “It Factor.” But what exactly is charisma?
The definition offers the query more questions than answers. Charisma can’t really be ciphered or abbreviated. There is no definitive explanation as to why the “It Factor” propels some mediocre song writers with below average musical talent to fame and fortune, while overlooking most of the musically sound and mechanically perfect ones. Entertainers can only wish they truly understood charisma. If one could, obtaining the “It Factor” might be possible. I’m sure you know a few musicians who are fantastic song writers that also lack charisma. One thing is for certain, authentic charisma is impossible to fake. It’s a gift that few possess and when you encounter it, you know it.
Enter Proverbial. The first time I saw them play was at the Canal Club last October. I heard great things about this seven-piece rock and roll-funk band, but I was skeptical of the praise I caught floating around my inner circle. Exaggerated descriptions of a band that would see the hype surrounding them fade just as fast as it came–or so I thought. By the last chord of the first song, I was overwhelmed with the charisma oozing from the stage.
Like dark matter–that unobservable force that astrophysicists believe holds the universe together–the “It Factor” is phantom magic that few are fortunate enough to possess. Those who possess this magical trait attract our attention and influence us without trying. They are the ones that inadvertently become game-changers, igniting movements and trends like The Grateful Dead and Ken Kesey did in the sixties. I am not a big fan of The Dead, but I cannot deny that together–with the help of psychedelics–they made an enormously colorful peace sign-shaped crater smack dab in the center of American culture. Though they only ever had one Top 10 hit, Jerry Garcia’s charismatic personality was the keystone in the archway of the door that millions of Dead-Heads first walked through. Charisma – that is the “It Factor.” But what exactly is charisma?
The definition offers the query more questions than answers. Charisma can’t really be ciphered or abbreviated. There is no definitive explanation as to why the “It Factor” propels some mediocre song writers with below average musical talent to fame and fortune, while overlooking most of the musically sound and mechanically perfect ones. Entertainers can only wish they truly understood charisma. If one could, obtaining the “It Factor” might be possible. I’m sure you know a few musicians who are fantastic song writers that also lack charisma. One thing is for certain, authentic charisma is impossible to fake. It’s a gift that few possess and when you encounter it, you know it.
Enter Proverbial. The first time I saw them play was at the Canal Club last October. I heard great things about this seven-piece rock and roll-funk band, but I was skeptical of the praise I caught floating around my inner circle. Exaggerated descriptions of a band that would see the hype surrounding them fade just as fast as it came–or so I thought. By the last chord of the first song, I was overwhelmed with the charisma oozing from the stage.
Left to Right: Stephen Holicky, Mike Ketter, Kevin Condrey, Ryan Harlowe, Phil Walker, Thomas Whitesell and Scott Gerry
Formed in 2007, founding members Thomas Whitesell (Sax/Hip-Hop vocals), Phil Walker(Keys/Lead Vocals) and Stephen Holicky(Lead Guitar/Lead Vocals) met in Harrisonburg, VA while attending JMU. After graduating, they relocated to the Richmond area, where Stephen introduced his band mates to Michael Ketter (Lead Vocals/Rhythm Guitar). They eventually hooked up with producer Martinez Kelly, and Proverbial recorded their first song titled “Mystical Breakdown” at Kick Em II Tha Curb Productions. Eventually, Proverbial’s lineup was completed with the addition of Ryan Harlowe (Drums), Scott Gerry (Bass) and Kevin Condry (Percussion). They went on to win both the 2009 Y101 Rock Off and 102.1 The X’s Local Exposure competition in 2010.
Within the first three months of 2011, Proverbial has already been crowned the champions in two separate competitions. Their trophy case now contains a letter of intent for a recording contract from Spectra Records, and twenty hours of free studio time courtesy of Battle Ground Sounds. When asked what they planned on doing with the free time, Stephen Holicky said, “We hope to get at least two songs recorded for the new album.” I was curious to know how they felt about the possibility of being label mates with local rockers HalfBrother Sid. “It’s great to have [the Spectra Records contract] as an option…we like the idea of keeping options under our belt.” said Thomas Whitesell with a grin. When asked if they’d leave Richmond when the opportunity presents itself, they all expressed a love and admiration for the city they owe their proverbial existence to, but seemed to agree that they plan on following the music wherever it takes them. These guys are as serious about succeeding as their stage presence is captivating.
There is no question that Proverbial has a very bright future. From the move-your-feet, feel good hip-hop lyrics of Thomas Whitesell, to the Jerry Lee Lewis-style energy radiating from behind the keys of Phil Walker, the “IT” in Proverbial has many layers, but must be witnessed firsthand, before the music takes them elsewhere.
Proverbial will be headlining The Canal Club on March 18th with Lifeline and Future, and June 4th at the Camel with PsychoBilly Cadillac. They also appeared on the live-music/sketch-comedy show Radio Rubber Room on March 12th, and we’ll have the podcast of that episode available for download soon.
Proverbial’s self-titled album is available for purchase on iTunes.
