Jay Gavan is one of the guitarists with Guitar UP!, a surf-rock band he founded with his brother, guitarist Shawn Gavan, seven years ago. This summer they released their first full-length album, Western Pacific, which will be available at their concert Friday night, Aug 23, at Old Dog Tavern. Joining them in the group are bassist Mark Duval and drummer Bryan Heany.
Jay Gavan says his interest in surf rock was formed as a kid when his older brother was learning guitar from an instructor who loved The Ventures. Over the years they pursued different musical paths, but would jam on surf rock tunes when they got together for family gatherings. The 12 original tunes on the new album were written by Jay and Shawn as well as drummer Bryan Heany. They reflect influences from spaghetti Westerns, James Bond soundtracks, as well as Michigan landmarks like the Mystery Spot in St. Ignace and the Straits of Mackinac.
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