Hidden somewhere in the ambiguity of instrumental funk and conventional pop/rock lies Chinese Fingertrap. When the lines blur, they define; when distinct, they manage to cloud previous perception. The ability of this quintet to awe lies with their versatility, both stylistically and as individuals . By keeping themselves guessing they manage to stray from the conventional.
Chinese Fingertrap spawned in October of 2005 from Gypsy Kitchen, a Milwaukee-based funk-trio, to which Eric Frank was the drummer. After a few years of gigging the band disintegrated, leaving Frank without a band. Initially intended only as a side-project, he called upon a medley of friends to fill his musical void and placed himself boards for the first time in his musical career. After only a short time, however, the band would realize that they were on to something more. Though already a reputable drummer in the area, Frank was now interested in new challenges.
In 2006 Chinese Fingertrap toured heavily throughout the midwest, playing more than fifty shows in their first year as a group. By 2007 the band was gaining true credibility, sharing the bill with the likes of Medeski, Martin and Wood, Galactic and Les Claypool at worthy venues and festivals such as 10,000 Lakes Music and Camping Festival, Wakarusa and The Grateful Garcia Gathering to name a few. Their rapid growth was largely due to the addition of Cody Schleichert and Alyssa Voelker on drums and vocals, respectively. While Schleichert solidified the music, Voelker began turning heads.
Voelker was gifted with an amazing voice that combines the power of Aretha Franklin and Bonnie Raitt with the beauty and elasticity of Norah Jones. Her soulful voice and inventive style ensconce the audience and remind us all why music is so beloved.
The band's pace increases in 2008 with the release of thieir debut album, continental tours and the hosting of their first major festival, Operation Adaptation. Operation Adaptation is a celebration of music, nature, and the harmony of all sentient beings. Held over three days in the beauty of the Wisconsin countryside, the event hopes to promote and explore eco-friendly lifestyle alternatives.
Though still in the early days of their musical career, the future looks bright for these eager musicians. The mystery of the future holds no fear for them. Their reward lies in their dedication. Their bonds only thicken with time, allowing the music to mature and hence, titillate their audiences' fancy. The ethereal grooves that spawn from these youngsters placate the soul and excite the senses. Unique instrumentation compound with amazing musical enthusiasm to create a fresh, organic sound that appeals to all audiences. Chinese Fingertrap are, with each step forward, proving their place in today's music.
View Chinese Fingertrap's EPK
