Bio -
With a bohemian spirit and a penchant for intelligent, deep songwriting, Gentry Blue has carved out a unique place in the music scene. Behind their unassuming exteriors lies a group of imaginative misfits who are passionate about their craft. Led by electric violinist and vocalist, Lydia Gentry-DeBonis, they seamlessly blend elements of progressive rock and psychedelic grunge infused with catchy pop hooks, creating a dynamic musical experience. The rest of the band comprises of Brendan DeBonis on lead guitar, Sean Jannay on rhythm guitar, Will Gibson on bass, and Tin Vo on drums.
Forming at Belmont University in 2018 under the name Gentry, the band drew from an eclectic range of influences to build their sound, from Rush and Jefferson Airplane to Fleetwood Mac. The result is an evolving sound that can be described as violin gothic rock with a touch of theatrics reminiscent of Muse and Ghost. Since their formation, Gentry Blue has captivated audiences with their live performances, seizing every opportunity to showcase their talent. They have performed at various notable events, including the Big River Steampunk Festival, the Flatlands Music Festival, and the Fawkes Fest, winning over listeners with their melodic and raw sound.
Despite the challenges of 2020, the band channeled their creativity and recorded their debut EP, "Pyrite and Steel". To Gentry Blue, being made of pyrite and steel represents resilience in harsh times and a commitment to sharing their stories while offering support to others. The EP explores a range of themes, from reflecting on a confusing and violent world to delving into the depths of space and beyond. In May 2022, they released the single "Tell Them I'm Insane," which was mixed and mastered by Grammy-winning producer Mitch Dane, building on their unique sound and storytelling abilities.
Currently, Gentry Blue is on tour while they are also hard at work writing their first full-length album. With their unapologetic passion, dedication to intelligent songwriting, and their ability to push musical boundaries, Gentry Blue is poised to leave an indelible mark.
Short Bio -
Few bands advertise themselves as a group that takes no prisoners, but that’s exactly what Gentry Blue does-- creating a passionate, raw sound involving hard rock meeting pure classic-inspired psychedelic rock. Comprised of five misfits from all over the country who met in Nashville, Tennessee, Gentry Blue stays true to their roots as they seek to reflect the rock and roll aesthetics of this constantly changing world. Formed in late 2018, the band's mission is to write songs ranging from different relationships, the depths of space, and beyond using different tools at their disposal; powerhouse female vocals, electric violin, fuzzy guitar riffs reminiscent of the 1960s and 1970s, and thoughtful lyrics. Gentry Blue is best described as a hybrid between Rush, Jefferson Airplane, and Fleetwood Mac.
Videos -
Testimonials -
"Gentry Blue has you delving into darkness only to rise above it on the wings of intense guitars in their EP Pyrite and Steel. Each track has a different vibe but retains the intensity and enthralling magnetism that the band does so well." - The Other Side Reviews
"A retro glam rock synthesis that’s ever so engaging and annoyingly addictive." - Find No Enemy
"...[Lydia Gentry's] tenor is quite remarkable – she can move along like Joplin, but has more emotional depth like Amy Lee or Lani Hall. I liked listening to her voice and falling down the rabbit hole of guessing her take on life... Gentry Blue has a way of making their music completely engrossing, a fullness in the overall sonic blend that is far superior to a computer programming sounds. It comes from their heart – and it shows" - Mark Druery (Indie Shark)
"'Familiar Ghosts' at times brings to mind the dark, ponderous sound of 90s grunge bands, and further exemplifies Gentry Blue’s creative songwriting skills as the track takes the listener on a journey complete with shifts in tempo, rhythm, and melody. The EP concludes with the riff-driven track “Downfall,” which features wonderfully intense electric violin and guitar solos. Pyrite and Steel is quite an enjoyable listen throughout, and I would highly recommend this great EP to fans of psychedelic- and progressive rock alike." - Trey Anastasio (Less than 1,000 Followers)
"'Pyrite and Steel', the new five-track EP from Gentry Blue is a masterclass in solid rock music foundation. Embellished with sultry tones, far-reaching guitar riffs, and a depth of musical arrangements, these songs cover a wide spectrum of themes. By the end of Pyrite and Steel, the universal emotions are stronger and make the listener feel that much more unstoppable. Nashville’s four-member rock outfit Gentry Blues’ canvass is like the Grand Canyon, big enough to fill the obvious Janis Joplin-influences into the same space as modern rock and their own spunk." - Indie Shark
"Gentry Blue is a clear example of a new generation willing to keep the flame of classic rock and roll alive, and [they] execute this mission with a lot of respect, talent and potential of true rockstars, ready to fill festivals and hallucinate the public with their skillful solos of guitar. The band unites a lot of authenticity in being inspired by the classic past of the genre, without taking your eyes off the future, adapting the sound to the problematic and contemporary and current lyrics. The dedication that Gentry Blue puts into its well-designed instrumentals are a true musical catharsis that connects the past and present, demonstrating great potential, confidence, and versatility" - Rock n Bold
