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 multi-instrumentalists Brendan Gentry-DeBonis and Sean Jannay trading on guitar, bass, or drums depending on the recording and the performance.
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 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, then the single "Collide" in December 2023, inspired by the sounds of space and progressive rock.
Currently, Gentry Blue is on tour promoting their debut album, “Fragments”, a loose concept album about the space within us and outside of us, which released on September 6, 2024. With their unapologetic passion, dedication to intelligent songwriting, and their ability to push musical boundaries, Gentry Blue is poised to leave an indelible mark. With Fragments, Gentry Blue takes its place as one of the finest progressive art rock bands in Tennessee.
Short bio -
There is as much space within us as without. With their debut album Fragments, Nashville-based rock band Gentry Blue soars and plummets in both directions equally, through debris fields of matter and emotion, to show how each space echoes the other. From the extra-galactic dread of “Collide,” through the self-stretched existentialism of “Fragments,” to the defiant positivity of “Cutthroat,” Frontwoman Lydia Gentry-DeBonis becomes an oracle of emotion over the crushing instrumentals of Brendan Gentry-DeBonis and Sean Jannay. Co-written by all three band-members, masterfully produced by Jannay and mastered by Colby Gustafson, the album is sonically satisfying as it is compositionally excellent. With Fragments, Gentry Blue takes its place as one of the finest progressive art rock bands in Tennessee.
Shorter bio -
Gentry Blue is a progressive art-rock band from Nashville, TN. Their potent existential lyricism and cathartic performances give the trio’s music a depth not often found in modern rock.
Videos -
Testimonials -
"Some acts are pure of spirit, and this is one of them. Gentry Blue’s members cannot be faulted for their realness and belief in the power of music." - Music Connection Magazine
“The performances, led by Lydia Gentry-DeBonis’s evocative vocals and violin, and supported by the multi-instrumental prowess of Brendan Gentry-DeBonis and Sean Jannay, are nothing short of impressive. Each song on Fragments feels like a finely cut gem, with concise running times and a perfect balance of intricate accompaniments and solos, reflecting the trio’s considerable skill.” – 9/10 review from Prog-Sphere
“[Fragments] is a carefully woven sonic experience that showcases the band’s signature blend of classic and alternative rock with an artistic, modern edge.” – We Write About Music
"...the US-based threesome transcends decades and generations with raw, fantastic, insatiable, undeniable music...
‘Lose No Sleep’ elegantly blends multi-instrumentalists Brendan Gentry-DeBonis and Sean Jannay’s crashing drums, searing guitars and bold bass in a haunting symphony." - The Other Side Reviews
"Gentry Blue has delivered a masterclass in storytelling through intensely weaved music." - Sinusoidal Music
"A retro glam rock synthesis that’s ever so engaging and annoyingly addictive." - Find No Enemy
"Memorable and charming from start to finish, “Lose No Sleep” is a stunning display of Gentry Blue’s stellar songwriting talent as well as their vocal and musicianship flair, bringing the composition to life in an engaging and energizing way.... Gentry Blue are sure to thrill listeners around the world with their exciting and highly original sound." - Plastic Magazine
"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 [guitar solos]. 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