Friends in Need of

Call it noise rock, post-grunge, emo or what you will, the dark indie rock created by Richfield Springs, New York, band Friends in Need of... will grab your attention upon first listen. Frequently cited as a complement to bands such as Girls Against Boys, Hum, Hot Water Music, and Jawbox, the band's music will even satisfy veteran Smashing Pumpkins' fans.

Friends in Need of... is fronted by 25-year-old twins Joe and Gino LaBruzzo. Joe handles lead vocals, both contribute guitars. Rounding out the rhythm section is another set of brothers, Sean and Matt Dropchinski, on bass and drums, respectively. Utilizing the long-time friendship and family connections between members, the band has developed style and synergy in their music, and a solid commitment to building a successful future.

After forming in 2001, the band moved into a trailer in the woods, looking to set up a recording studio and keeping costs down while developing their musical ideas. After converting the trailers living room and back bedroom into the tracking and control rooms, they began collaborating on Joe LaBruzzo's lyrics and chords in the makeshift studio. Soon the band's arrangements were regularly being captured on tape, and the group's chemistry began to gel.

Three years later, they've emerged with a collection of in-your-face songs and a hunger to hit the road. Recently Friends in Need of... has been playing college shows and clubs around Albany and Syracuse, and the band plans to spend summer and fall 2004 playing clubs in New York and surrounding states, as well as performing at industry showcases and music festivals.