Local, International Bands To Pay Tribute To The Reducers

With performers ranging from local bands to Japanese rockers, a number of musicians have joined together to pay tribute to one of New London's most iconic bands.

Twenty-four bands are each contributing a track to "Rave On: A Tribute to The Reducers, Vol. 1." The album will be released in a party on Sept. 22 at Waterford's Eugene O'Neill Theater Center Rose Barn, where The Reducers first performed in 1978.

During their career, The Reducers toured both nationally and internationally. In 2004, they made a 10-day tour through Japan. Since its inception, original members Hugh Birdsall (guitar and vocals), Peter Detmold (guitar and vocals), Steve Kaika (bass) and Tom Trombley (drums) were with the band. Kaika in June, and proceeds from the album release party will benefit Kaika's family to assist with medical bills.

The tribute album brings together a number of bands who played with or were inspired by The Reducers. Local bands include Matt Gouette, Paul Brockett Roadshow, and The Rivergods. The Clothespins and Blonde Furniture reunite to add tracks to the album.

Five Japanese bands will also contribute songs along with musicians from places such as Boston, California, Canada, and New Haven. Tracks range from note-for-note covers to songs that are "re-imagined in ways that
showcase the timeless impact of the band's songwriting."

Doors for the album release party open at 6:30 p.m. and bands take the stage between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. Live performers include Heap, The Dogmatics, The Manchurians, Paul Brockett Roadshow, The Rivergods with Steve Elci and Lauren Agnelli, The Clothespins, Jes Farnsworth, Matt Gouette, Blonde Furniture and Missy Roback. There is a suggested donation of $10.

CDs will be on sale at the event. Local and national retailers will carry it after the release, and it will also be available at the site goodsponge.com.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.