Strange days in Strandland.  As of last week, our drummer Bryon Anderson officially resigned from The Strand.  To quote Bryon, “All the constant band obligations (practice/shows/hours loading and lifting) is just not fun or fulfilling anymore. I’m really looking forward to being done with it for a while and having my weekends back.” He also went on to say, “I enjoy the friendships & gatherings we all have, but the music part of my life has become more burden than fun. Mostly work and not much creativity.” I can understand what he means, it is a lot of work.  Plus Bryon has been playing in more than one band for the better part of a decade.  Still, we had some great times, from our early gigs at the Mason Jar, to the AOR / RFA gigs, the Grave parties, and three CD release parties.  Especially good times during the out of state gigs, like the Midwest tour, the SLC gigs, and the infamous New Mexico gigs. All in all roughly 68 shows with The Strand spanning almost 10 years of rocking out.  His skill, style, humor, and songwriting will surely be missed.  Farewell Bryon.

Alas, Strand-life must go on. Consequently, starting immediately our new drummer is our very own Elias Lewter.  Bet you didn’t know this, but as well as a being an amazing singer, songwriter, keyboardist, Elias is also an accomplished drummer.  He started playing drums when he was in third grade and started his music career in his first band, Monkey Bite! He went on to also play drums in PLF, Dubok, and then Pressure:Penetration. Not to mention playing occasional keys for Flesh Field, and then Manda and the Marbles.  Elias of course is also the current front man for Access Zero.   Let’s just say, the dude’s got skills and we’re happy to have him on the team.  He’s already picking out a SICK drum kit, and looking forward to rocking out.