Biography
There are two artists by the name TRUDGE.
1) Producer based out of Paris, France.
2) In a time when most critics would say, "it's all been done" with heavy music, along comes a band like this to prove them wrong! Rising from urban, northern New Jersey, TRUDGE, continuously pushes the envelope in redefining the spectrum of nu-metal. The band fuses together deep, dreary rhythms accompanied by angst-filled aggressive vocals in a truly unique way, which only begins to describe their sound. The quintet is comprised of Stephen Dale Shockley on vocals, Steve Fakelman on guitar and backing vocals, Juan Hernandez on guitar, Mike Ferreira on bass and John Signorella on drums.
Officially forming in early 2002 after adding Shockley to the original line-up, TRUDGE geared up to do their initial damage. They stirred up the local scene at an alarming pace creating a huge buzz and securing gigs instantly in both NJ and NYC! Their two-song demo, featuring "Blinded by Anger" and "Naive", gained radio airplay. They also received press in both The Aquarian and Steppin' Out magazine.
Trudge was ready to take it to the next level, but something was missing in the initial mix. The next step was to expand on the overall sound by securing a drummer and adding an additional guitarist. TRUDGE's previous drummer, Danny Couto, made waves with his amazing drumming/percussion which was enough to catch the eye of the Ill Nino camp. Not to long after this they recruited Danny as the percussionist, which left TRUDGE without a drummer.
A trip to a local music store would prove favorable for TRUDGE shortly afterward. They saw an ad for drumming lessons given. Thinking this may help out, they contacted the teacher looking for some of his better students interested in a serious band. As luck would have it, they got the best prospect available… the teacher! John Signorella, with his vast knowledge of drumming and percussion, fit the project like a glove.
Last, but not least, was the acquisition of an additional guitar player. Due to the busy and complex sounds TRUDGE brings out, they needed more musicianship to do their music justice. Based on high recommendations from friend, and now Ill Nino percussionist Danny Couto, TRUDGE sought and tried out Juan Hernandez. He nailed it!
Recently the band finished up with their first five song EP simply titled TRUDGE EP. It was recorded at Purple Light Studios in Brooklyn, NY under the production of Mike Barillee. A couple of known musicians appear on the recording, including Kenny from Candiria, and Fern from the Step Kings. It's available now at shows and through their website.
Overall the band showcases an exotic blend of backgrounds. Mike, John and Steve Fakelman all share over ten years of professional playing experience throughout various projects. Shockley, born and raised in Oklahoma, moved to New Jersey with the sole purpose of making it to the big time through music. As for the new guy, Juan, he's a seasoned player having toured the US with his previous band Shovelbarn. Now that all make up the TRUDGE crew, this ensemble is destined for success. Collectively, they site their common influences as TOOL, SEVENDUST and the DEFTONES. Stick around 'cause you ain't seen nothing yet!
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