Storm brews funk at bike town

Since 2003, local funk unit Geo C. and Tha Storm has been opening local minds and hearts to pure experimental funk. The band just recorded their third studio full-length album "Geology." The new album concentrates on alternative soul, laced in late '70s hip-hop. They take the mysticism of Prince and the raw funk power of Fishbone to excellent levels. On Saturday, Oct. 10, Geo C. and Tha Storm will play outdoors at 1 a.m. at Harley-Davidson Bike Town, located on Interstate Boulevard in Austintown.

What makes the Storm unique is that frontman George Case, aka Geo C., does not stick to simply one lineup of musicians. The band endured multiple lineup changes through each album. For instance, the cast of musicians who play on the Storm's studio albums differ from the lineup of musicians who play live.

"I would pick different players at different times and incorporate them on different albums and shows," Case said.

The band's current live lineup includes George Case on vocals and keyboards, Melody Case on vocals, flute and keyboards, Harold Rollins on drums, Tyrone Williams on guitar and vocals, Gary Strothers on guitar, Mark Castro on keyboards and Keith Crockett on bass. George Case is also the owner and founder of the downtown record shop Geo's Music.

The band's new release "Geology" was recorded at Head Room Studios in Warren, Ohio, and released on the band's own label, Earthtone Records. The second half was then recorded at Underdog Studios in Hubbard, Ohio. Case is confident that "Geology" is an introspective masterpiece.

"I feel that my songwriting in constant progression and will be different from album to album," Case said.

Case chose the title "Geology" because the new CD represents a study of his life and experiences, hence "Geo" and "Geology." Case said "Geology" displays many positive traits.

"'Geology' is better recorded, and I learned how to use the studio and recording tools a lot better," Case said.

Despite the album's funk aspects, the band delves heavily into the lyrics, speaking introspectively to their listeners. "Geology" is definitely the band's approach to an experimental concept release.

Case grew up in a multicultural background where he was exposed to many genres of music. His influences range from Sly and the Family Stone, Fishbone, Funkadelic, Prince, the Eagles, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Case has a batch of songs that he and his Storm-mates have yet to play live. Case is always writing and recording songs at a constant speed.

"I have a melting pot of gumbo in my head and it's slowly coming out," Case said.

When it comes to the new CD, Case said it's all up to the listener. Case said artists like Lenny Kravitz allow their listeners to make their own perceptions and observations of their music. This is the technique Case is achieving.

"I always try to record things that represent where I am and where the band is at," Case said.

Case said he is honored to play at Saturday's End of The Year event at Harley-Davidson Bike Town.

"Expect to hear heartfelt string music that's powerful and different," Case said.