StillWillis has been performing with their current lineup for about three years and have made significant advances in their sound and musicianship. Based out of Philadelphia, the band consists of Dean Gorfti on Drums, Raphael Cutrufello on keyboards, and Matt Helm, Chris Grunwald, and Mike Caroto on guitars. Chris and Mike alternate duties on the bass and guitar, adding a unique twist to the typical rock and roll roster. The release of their debut album, Ghost Cats With Wings, has garnered the band much praise including Local Pic of the Day on Philadelphia's 88.5 WXPN(2005).
A shared musical taste for such bands as The Beatles, The Graetful Dead, and Wilco, and pioneering songwriters like Paul Simon, Bob Dylan, and Elliot Smith brings the members of StillWillis together for a seamless musical blend that has been aptly described as "acid folk". "Quite possibly one Philadelphia's greatest jam bands, Stillwillis mixes the innocence of Elliot Smith, the flow of Pink Floyd and the Doobie Brothers with teh musicianship of The Beatles"(Origavation magazine, June '04).
The majority of the songwriting responsibilities are taken on by Matt, Raphael, and Chris, while Dean's drumming provides a seriously danceable groove. The distinctive lead guitar of Mike Caroto colors the sound with a searing rock and roll feel. With all the members taking turns at the microphone, sometimes spontaneously, the vocals move from a chilling subtlety to bombastic choruses reminiscent of The Band or Weezer.
Perhaps the most distinctive aspect of Stillwillis is the vibe achieved at their live shows. With a very dedicated following, Willis consistently draws laid back, fun loving crowds to their performances. The audience picks up on the contagious relaxed approach of the musicians to produce a genuine, good-natured party atmosphere. After playing such respected Philadelphia venues as The North Star Bar, The Khyber, Fergie's Pub, and The Electric Factory(Philadelphia Music Awards 2004), StillWillis has continued their growth out of state at venues and festivals such as Ab n' Jax festival in NJ, The Knitting Factory and the Groove Lounge in NYC, and Floydfest(2006) in Floyd, VA representing Philadelphia as one of its premiere original acts. The success of Stillwillis, thus far, is reflected by their loyal following and their ability to intrigue new listeners.
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