THE MIGHTY REGIS

I never thought I'd ever get into music as a kid.  I took a drum lesson once and bailed half way through to play a pick up game of 4-on-4 football at a friend's house.  But I love music.  Growing up my mother gave me her record collection for birthdays gifts.  Each year I'd receive albums like "Rubber Soul", "The Best of The Animals", "Beggar's Banquet" and, my personal, favorite "Who's Next". 

I became a fan of Punk, New York City Hip Hop, Traditional Irish Music and Ska.  I saw live shows whenever I could.  It was everything from Genesis at Veteran Stadium to The Mighty Mighty Bosstones at a dive club off Marshall Street in Syracuse.  Hell, I even caught Phish at the HORDE Tour a few times.

One of my closest childhood friends played in a legendary New England Ska band called Spring Heel Jack.  Dave Karcich taught me so much about music.  I was so proud of him for going out there and living the life he loved.  In 2004 my buddy Dave passed away unexpectedly.  I hadn't seen him in years, but I considered him a brother.  I found myself listening to more and more bands, seeing live acts and even dabbling with lyrics of my own.  I guess it was my way of honoring him.

In the winter of 2006 I decided to put up or shut up.  My friend and fellow Redshirt Freshman (A long running LA Improv troop I played with) got together and began writing songs.  Within a few weeks 'The Mighty Regis' was formed.  We were a punk band in the true sense of PUNK. 

Most think Punk Rock is leather jackets, spiked wristbands, Mohawk haircuts and angry kids...and sure, that can be part of the scene.  But Punk is a state of mind.  It's believing you can do something and getting out there to prove it.  The Mighty Regis was a band loaded with different types of people from different backgrounds, who got together and played Irish folk tunes with the energy of your local pub on St. Patrick's Day.  We were often compared to the likes of Dropkick Murphys or Flogging Molly,   two outstanding bands we had so much respect for, but I always wanted a band that felt like the bastard child of the Beastie Boys, the Pogues and The Mighty Mighty Bosstones. 

Over the course of our nearly 7 year run, The Mighty Regis saw many ups and downs.  We played with some great acts.  We shared the stage with Frank Turner, Dropkick Murphys, Spider Stacey, Voodoo Glo Skulls, Flatfoot 56, Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band.  We played The Van's Warped Tour and traveled the US and Canada.  It was the thing I am most proud of in my performing career.  Am I sad it's over?  Sure.  But I'm so glad it happened.  Will I play with another band again? I'd never say never...hell, I never thought I'd ever play music in the first place.  The ride was one I think about everyday.