The Banters
Austin, Texas, United States
Music
Press
Hitchhiker's Paradise, Joel Mercado-See:
This is a sentimental, smart collection of piano pop. Mercado-See's voice is crisp, clear and confident on standout songs Comfort, Superman's Outta Town and Jonathan. The singer's parents are from the Philippines, and he rattles stereotypes on disc closer Please Don't Call Me Kung-Fu. ("Don't ask me to translate what I don't understand? See I wasn't raised in a dim-sum stand.") Available at cdbaby.com. — J.G. - SARA CRESS and JOEY GUERRA - Houston Chronicle
"Mercado-See's disc is thoughtful, emotive and insanely catchy. It helps that he's got a clear, affecting voice and mad piano skills. (That's right, I said "mad.") I think I've found a new favorite." - Houston Chronicle
Discography
The Banters EP - 2009
Tad Ghetto EP - 2008
Supermans Outta Town - 2006 (Joel single release)
Hitchhiker's Paradise - 2006 (Joel solo release)
Fool Proof - 2000 (Dave solo release)
Something To Listen To - 1999 (Dave solo release)
Photos
Bio
THE BANTERS’ music is melodic modern rock inspired by a span of musical genres from every decade. Songs like “On My Way To You” and “Tornado” show cinematic storytelling. Wit and charm shine in “Me and Pedro,” “Jodie’s Last Ride,” and “Wait ‘Til The Morning.” Whether jamming, playing originals, or showing off new renditions of classics, THE BANTERS entertain with musicality and charisma.
Dave Lovett and Joel Mercado-See decided to join forces in 2006, after returning from a tour to promote Joel’s album "Hitchhiker's Paradise". Their musical and fraternal compatibility had become evident over their two months on the road. In early 2007, Joel moved back to Austin so he and Dave could become fully committed to a band project and played landmark venues like Momo’s and the Saxon Pub. Shortly after, they began opening for local favorites like Guy Forstyhe, Vallejo, Johnny Goudie, and Bob Schneider. After a stint with a local label, they regrouped under the name THE BANTERS. The name was chosen as a description of their informal style, as well as homage to the simple namesakes of classic rock acts that serve as some of their influences.
The band is rounded out by Cam Ehly on lead guitar, Kyle Welch on bass and backing vocals, and Tony Lehrhaupt on the drums. Their individual tastes and contributions only compliment and enhance the various styles of the THE BANTERS.
THE BANTERS’ voracious appetite for great rock ‘n’ roll propels them over the hurdles of the ever-changing music industry. The evolution of Dave and Joel leads them to continue creating modern music while holding to vintage roots. THE BANTERS’ musical conversation expresses the journey of Everyman – soulful samples of life captured in lyrics, rhythms, and melodies.
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