DROP DEAD SEXY

IF YOU'RE "SEXY" AND YOU KNOW IT...  

Although some may consider them to be a "party band", Drop Dead Sexy is unclassifiable by nature. With awesome costumes, props, and years of experience, they are the band that keeps the party rockin' all night long. Made up of seven seasoned musicians, each having the ability to sing, and even play multiple instruments, the band can accomplish almost anything musically. They have played at venues all over the east coast including The House of Blues, many corporate and Casino shows, and an annual New Years Eve performance in Killington, VT.

Who are these sexy and talented guys, you ask? First, there's Paul Dersch, formerly of 39 Mariner, who provides the lead vocals, keys, and plays the best inflatable guitar this side of the Mississippi. A classically-trained pianist, Paul has been perfecting his craft since age 11 including rocking his high school marching band and performing in concert choir. One of the founding members, Chris "Ducky" Doran, began his career in Slick Willy Johnson & the BBQ Band and now can been seen slammin' on the sax which he started playing when he was just a duckling (in 3rd grade). The Duck also sings, plays keys, percussion, and harmonica. Tooting his horn, on the trumpet, is Ryan Starr. As part of his high school jazz band, choir, and orchestra, Ryan has a vast musical resume including playing with Four Point Play, Ritmo Sabroso (a Latin band), and recording with Fusebox Funk. Ryan can also play a mean violin as well as guitar, percussion, and keys. Next comes Justin Wolfe who drew inspiration for becoming a musician from his older brother. He played with Azure Drake, No Way Out and now rocks the DDS stage on guitar. With a degree in bass performance, Scott Lippincott was a part of the All-State jazz band and has played the guitar since he was 15. Scott began his rock star training at a much earlier age when he started to tickle the ivories at age 5. You can find Dave Whiteman on the bass which he has been playing since the tender age of 13. Also part of the All-State jazz band, Dave's roots include playing with Fooling April, Action Figures, and LGS. Last, but certainly not least, DDS' "Animal" on drums is John Troncale. From the unpaved streets of Millville, NJ , John and Ducky, both from the original band The Turnstyles, began this rollercoaster ride that is now the rock and roll monstrosity known as Drop Dead Sexy.

Together, DDS' goal is to put on a quality show that is both unique and memorable. The band constantly thinks outside the box and does things that no other band is doing. They accomplish this with tons of costumes (like pimp threads, an Elton John ensemble, numerous wigs, hats, and, of course, inflatable items such as guitars, microphones, and even palm trees!). They also try to "redeem" overplayed, stereotypical cover band tunes or cookie-cutter modern rock hits by "dressing them up" with their creativity and tongue-in-cheek attitude. Sure, they'll play Sweet Home Alabama, but they won't sing it; they'll make the audience sing every single word of the song – karaoke style – while the band provides the music and, of course, the lyrics on giant cue cards. Still think you've heard it all? Well, you haven't heard anything until you've experienced Drop Dead Sexy's rendition of the classic Queen hit "Bohemian Rhapsody".

The more DDS performs, the more their show evolves, to the point where it's almost theatrical. They work closely with their production company, Trilogy Sound and Lighting, to coordinate all aspects of their stage show into a highly integrated and seamless performance. The result is a show that appears to be effortless, but in actuality takes a ton of work. The band doesn't just sit down and learn songs; they dedicate portions of rehearsal to discussing costuming or working out stage direction or developing choreography.

With all the fun and hilarity that ensues with every show, it's important to know that DDS takes what they do very seriously, but not too seriously. They constantly strive for excellence in all aspects, but at the same time, every performance is a party. The band likes to joke around with each other on stage and even tease the audience. The smallest inside joke can evolve into an elaborate skit; or a song request by a hot girl might inspire the band to try a song they've never played before.

DDS treasures each and every fan and show attendee. They have some of the most formidably loyal fans out there. To show their appreciation, aside from having free giveaways on "Fan Appreciation Nights", the band schedules "You Call It Nights" where the audience will pick every song that they play. There are also times where they will hold a "Live Rehearsal" and try a particular song they've never played before. They also schedule bus trips where fans can get together and take an overnight journey to see a show.

DDS strives to get to know each and every one of their fans as much as possible, whether it's where they're from, what their favorite songs are, who they're hanging out with, or even what other bands they like to see. They love making a living playing music, but it's their fans that make the effort worthwhile.

If you just can't get enough of Drop Dead Sexy or would like to learn even more about the band, visit their website at www.DropDeadSexy.com. Make sure to sign up for weekly schedule updates, vote in the poll, and submit your birthday to the band. This week, you can catch DDS playing at Kildare's (acoustic) on Thursday, The Pennant East on Friday, and Tink's on Saturday. You can also see DDS along with other great Shore Bets bands at an agency Showcase on March 29th 2006 in the Trump Marina in Atlantic City, NJ. Need the band all to yourself? Call Shore Bets Agency at 215-884-HELP to book your private party, wedding, or special event!