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“I was once told by someone that they thought I was the best singer in Hamilton.” So starts my interview with Trinity Road. Jeremy Guther is comfortably sitting in front of me when he follows with, “And I replied, I’m not even the best singer in Trinity Road! Sure, it’s a play on an old John Lennon quote about Ringo not being the best drummer in the Beatles, but it’s a great insight into the heart of the band.”
He continues, “When the band first started, we were exclusively an original band. As time went on, word got out about us, and we had regular house gigs. We consider ourselves very fortunate that we’ve always had steady work, but I think it’s also a reflection of us as a group, collectively and individually. This year, as with every year before it, it’s always mine and our intention to make sure we take a step forward and grow. It’s sometimes tough and frustrating, but a great gig more than makes up for it every time.”
Trinity Road has really evolved in the approximately 10 years of existence. Originally starting as a 3 piece acoustic band that was heavy on the ballads, they’ve changed their style, format, and lineup to a 5 piece rock band that essentially covers every avenue needed and more importantly, required of a professional group.
“In those early days, we were a band with 2 songwriters and 3 instruments and just wanting to play and have fun. I played a bit of lead guitar, besides keyboards and vocals, but none of my guitar playing was memorable, that’s for sure.” Jeremy laughs. He pauses while reflecting on those said early days before continuing. “Looking back though, it was a great start, and I wouldn’t change a thing.”
I ask him how Trinity Road got started. “It was actually Lou who had initiated the concept of starting a band. I was a solo artist and Lou played bass for me. His idea was to join forces with another musician friend of ours, Steven St. James. The three of us were already best friends, so it was an easy answer for all of us to make. Being in a band with them, especially in those beginning stages, really helped me grow as an artist. Having two guys who I saw as brothers, not only supporting me, but believing in me and sharing something that we were all equally passionate about, it’s something I’ll always remember. Over time, Steven eventually left the band to pursue other interests, and although Lou and I both miss him, we fully support his new projects and direction.”
Today’s lineup features Jeremy on lead & backing vocals and keyboards, as well as being the principle songwriter. Louis Joel James, the only other original member, is on bass. Chris Wheeler is lead guitarist. Chantal Barrow is lead & backing vocals and percussion. Ray Farrugia is on drums.
As we look at different pictures of different phases of his career, Jeremy points out a picture that we both share a laugh at. “That picture, I think, is really where I think today’s version of Trinity Road comes from, although I had no idea at the time.” The picture shows Jeremy, Chantal and Chris in what can only be described as pure 70’s style mock attire. “To make a long story short, I ended up doing a revue show that was all 70’s music. Chantal and Chris were both in the cast and that’s how we met, and from there, they soon came onboard with the band. Being in that show changed not only my life, but the face and style of Trinity Road. I honestly can’t imagine the band without them.”
As our interview winds down, I ask him for one last quote or thought before he leaves.
“I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. When the 5 of us are on stage, it’s pure magic. I’ve played in quite a few bands and have done many projects, but something collectively about us, well, I’ll be so bold as to say that I think Trinity Road competes and is on the same level as any top tier band out there today.”
© William Rivers 2009
Trinity Road - Debut Album
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