Biography

"Sharp, intelligent songwriting and arranging, a knack for creating music that is instantly familiar but full of fresh ideas and superior singing and playing--individually and collectively--make EJB an especially impressive ensemble."
- Chuck Darrow, Philadelphia Daily News Entertainment

Collectively, the Elwood James Band is comprised of Poppa Vin on keyboard and vocals, Dennis James on guitar and vocals, Danny Wagz on percussion and vocals, and Vinnie Vescio on bass guitar and vocals. We were established in 2009 after Danny and Poppa Vin departed from a classic rock band to pursue a more original direction. Dennis James, a life-long friend and former band-mate of Vin’s, was recruited into the early stages of the project. After deciding to take on a serious role as a band, they drafted Vin’s son, Vinnie, to play bass guitar and formed the Elwood James Band.

Since forming the group, EJB has performed over 30 shows local to the Philadelphia area and has played multiple fund raising events including the 2010 Haiti earthquake relief – Musicians Actively Supporting Haiti and for Breast Cancer Awareness’ 2011 Walk for the Cure. We have progressed from a blues driven quartet to bridging the gap between genres like Alternative, Country, and Hard Rock. We have been told our sound is similar to that of the Black Crowes, Blues Traveler, and Widespread Panic, and some would argue they hear a Grateful Dead influence as well. The truth is we have been influenced by the musical direction of many past decades, from the 60’s to the present, representing the evolution of live music as best we can.

Up-to-the-minute event information and how to contact the Elwood James Band can be found at www.elwoodjamesband.com. Become an EJBeing.