Hey Battlefield

Artist Description

 Native New Yorkers, Hey Battlefield, emerge on the scene with a stripped down sound, combining blues rock with a jazz foundation. Jason Rossi (Vocals/Guitar), Michael Scheideler (Drums), and Tyler Krupsky (Bass) came together in 2009 to form the band, and despite only a short time together, have created a distinctive sound. Hey Battlefield uses a less is more approach, relying on the people, rather than leaning heavy on the equipment. The raw pared down style evokes heavy emotions, which are accessible, and unadulterated.

Each member has had music in their lives from their respective beginnings. Rossi is a self-taught guitarist and pianist from Queens, and has been writing uncontrived songs since his childhood. Prior to Hey Battlefield, he played as a solo artist working with various hired hands. Krupsky is a multi-instrumentalist from Albany, trained primarily in bass guitar. Managing a Bass shop in the East Village and working in production by trade, he was formerly a member of the New York State Jazz Band, and has shared the stage with many well known bands Glassjaw, and Filter, to name a few). Scheideler began his musical career as a trumpeter at the age of 7 in Queens, and moved over to jazz drums since. He trained at the City Music School of New York for 5 years, and has played drums all over the city since his teens.

With such varied backgrounds of Jazz, Blues, Folk and Rock, its no surprise that the band has a unique sound. Like all musicians, the trios main influences often seep into their music, creating songs for amalgamated genres. Emulating from Tom Waits to Jaco Pastorius, to the early Rolling Stones, the band plays what they want to hear, playing what they feel.

In avoiding a cluttered stage, the band evinces a dedication to the music. A purity of sound, unfettered by effects pedals and electronics; simply the artists and a blank canvas. Though Rossi writes the lyrics, each member contributes equally to the final product of each song. The trio is diligent, and professional on and off the stage. As true musicians, they play out of necessity; music isn't a profession, its their way of life. Hey Battlefield is a band in love with its craft, and it shows.