Birdhouse Gourds

1. “That Girl” [MP3 (In Briefcase)] [REAL AUDIO]

“Our song-writing inspirations can be attributed to groups like R.E.M, Green Day, Cheap Trick, and The Smiths, along with all the groups that inspired them. The leading independent music magazine in Cleveland, Ohio reviewed our CD and noticed that ‘R.E.M., in fact, is the Gourds' strongest influence: Opening cut "That Girl" could have been an outtake from Murmur or Reckoning; Barenaked Ladies, Gin Blossoms, and all other guitar-driven modern-rock acts creep into their sound as well.’ The full article can be accessed HERE.”

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“I Wanna Hear More! Is it possible to sound raw and polished at the same time? These guys have accomplished it. The arrangement is tight and tasty, the vocal harmonies are fantastic, and it all has that ‘live off the floor’ vibe. I'd love to catch these guys in a live performance.”

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Tired of half-grown poseurs and annoying, trend-clinging imposters? If you like refreshing, well-written songs, genuine, “one-take only” rock performances, and humble, unassuming personalities of real musicians, then do we have a band for you!

The Birdhouse Gourds are carving out a unique niche in today's intelligent adult music scene, employing a broad musical vocabulary, unassuming nature, and introspective humor to color their songs. From their moody classic “Claire,” to the strikingly upbeat “That Girl,” to the swingy “Boy in the Attic,” the Birdhouse Gourds reel you in with charismatic singing, succinct guitar and mandolin work, and a potent rhythm section. Their humble talent and creativity has translated into a loyal audience that knows they'll be treated to inspired songs and a great performance each and every show.

The Birdhouse Gourds are a modern rock trio specializing in an adventurous blend of natural sound, earnest melody and self-deprecating humor. The band combines the energy of acoustic and electric guitar-driven rock, the buoyant and memorable melody of '70s and '80s pop, post '60s thoughtfulness, and the whimsical fun of no-holds-barred introspective humor. The excellent musicianship of lifelong friends Jerry Popiel, Jake Schneider and Will Albrecht pulls it all together with a “do it yourself” feel done Rust-Belt style. Gregg Thauvette, hard rock guitarist turned intelligent instrumentalist rounds out the Birdhouse Gourds at select performances.

Among the group's accomplishments was its performance at Cleveland's famous Nautica complex, where the band was featured before legends of '60s surf rock, the Beach Boys. The performance was sponsored by national entertainment giant House of Blues, Sirius Satellite Radio, and the Cleveland Free Times, and has helped launch the Birdhouse Gourds into a wider audience. Also worthy of note, the group achieved the #2 rating in August, 2002, of all bands (numbering into the thousands) in the country registered on the definitive national music website www.cornerband.com. The group also has been featured at live, in-studio radio performances, such as the venerable WRUW 91.1 FM's “Live From Cleveland” show. Four of the group's singles have spent considerable time in rotation, most notably “That Girl.”

The Birdhouse Gourds are three Cleveland-area musicians that previously made their marks in music scenes in the east and Midwest. Jerry Popiel (lead vocals and guitar) and Will Albrecht (bass guitar and vocals) fronted Boston's “The North American Martyrs” and Washington, DC's “Ode” in the 1990s. They achieved national recognition as finalists in Musician magazine's states-wide songwriting contest with their skilled songwriting, which they have honed further with the Birdhouse Gourds. Jake Schneider (drums and vocals) has powered northern Ohio acts such as “The Neighbors” and “90 West.” Jake is known for his exuberant drumming and his sharp background and lead vocals. The quintessential American “boys next door,” the Birdhouse Gourds are at once creative and capricious, yet they possess a self-assured maturity that is uncommon in rock bands.

These three childhood friend finally were reunited in 2001, and have quickly established the Birdhouse Gourds as a band to watch closely. The band's self-produced, self-recorded CD demo is garnering critical acclaim, and is available online at jerry@birdhousegourds.com. Check out the group's single “That Girl” as your introduction to the band.