99 Tales

99 Tales have been performing from their hometown of Sacramento, CA for many years. The band has released two recordings: "Stories From Salem" (1995), "Ninety Nine Tales" (2000). Their third release, "Full Moon, Empty Heart", has recently been released (Summer 2004), and is available in stores now.



The band started out as a trio of friends around 1990 (Vince Martini, James McKernon, Dave Hays). Inspired by much of the underground music that they grew up with, as well as what is deemed Americana , this group launched into a sonic hybrid of the two styles. The band eventually added another guitarist (Sean Schroeder), creating a twangfest of fat-body guitars! Unfortunately, through death and departures, the band had to go through some lineup changes. In the mid 90's, the band was lucky to acquire Davis, CA musician Kim Williams (now Martini); went through a temporary drummer (Tom Selear); then happily landed their permanent drummer in Matt Shelley.



The reverb drenched quartet can be distinguished by its melodic guitars, the lonely and distant sound of the lap steel, haunting violin, driving drums, and the strong heartbeat of the bass. This quartet further displays a unique sound with their guy-gal harmonies, bringing a powerful yet beautiful texture to the songs. 99 Tales' music, with its perpetual drive, infectuous melodies, and minor chord obsession, display anthems of hope, tragedy, triumph, and despair.



Comparisons have been made to X, Gun Club, Chris Isaac, The Pixies, The Sadies, Sixteen Horsepower, Tarnation, Yo La Tengo, Barbara Manning, Velvet Underground, The Mermen, and Throwing Muses.



99 Tales made a contribution in 1999 to BloodShot Records, "Poor Little Knitter On The Road," a tribute to the Knitters. Most recently the band recorded another cover tune for BloodShot "For A Decade of Sin: 11 Years of Bloodshot Records". The band chose "Tearin' My Hair Out" by legendary 80's L.A. Rockablilly band, The Red Devils.