Lingo is a band with their own secret language, as their name would indicate. Founded by brothers Justin and Alex Tramble in their hometown of Marietta, GA in 2004 with original members Dylan Burke on guitar, Paul Stevens on keys, Marshall Sanchez on drums, and Garrett Kamins on percussion as the first incarnation of Lingo. The initial line-up represented what the band still stands for today: an attempt to balance songwriting and improvisational jam.
The current lineup that has been together for the past 3 years or so now includes Daniel Groover on lead guitar, Greg Perry on the drums, and Tony Giordino on the keys. Daniel came into the band as a long time fan and fellow performer, creating funky improvisational riffs throughout every performance. Greg has been an active and respected part of the Atlanta music scene for the last 15 years and received a BAS in Music Performance at Georgia State University. It was there where he studied classical techniques under Jack Bell (principle percussionist, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra), and jazz techniques/big band reading under Billy Degnats. Tony, also known as “The G-Factor,” is arguably one of the best key men in the country. Together the group makes for an incredibly fun live experience with phenomenal musicianship – a band that I have had the privilege to see develop and grow over the years since my first time seeing them perform at Dingus Magee’s in Statesboro, GA circa 2009.
Lingo will be at Buckhead Theatre on Saturday, Nov. 8 opening for Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue. I was able to get with Justin to ask a few questions about the band and what’s to come.
AMG: When did Lingo form and how did you guys all meet?
Justin: Alex and I are the founding members of the band. We started playing back in the high school days, so it goes way back. We learned how to play instruments in our parents basement. Things have changed since then. We’ve been at it more “professionally” for the past couple of years. This current lineup with Greg, Tony and Daniel has been together for 3 years or so.
AMG: What’s the best gig you’ve played so far?
Justin: That’s a tough questions because we’ve had some good ones. Tipitinas in New Orleans in front of a sold out crowd opening for Rebirth Brass Band. A sold out Allman Brothers Band pre-show at BB Kings in Time Square? Those are all up there. I think the first time we headlined Terminal West in Atlanta was the highlight for me though. Just seeing our home base all excited about us was special. I think we had over 400 folks come out that first one.
AMG: Top 5 bands you’d love to play with.
Justin: Hmm… Wilco, Krasno (any of his bands), Dave Matthews Band, Derek Trucks, Ben Harper… those are all my favorites at least… all the other guys would have 5 different bands.
AMG: What are you looking forward to most about playing with Trombone Shorty on Nov. 8th?
Justin: Playing the Buckhead Theatre. Crossing another Atlanta venue off our list. Plus, it’s going to be awesome to share the stage with Shorty. The dude has it…
AMG: What’s next for Lingo?
Justin: Just keep plugging away. Got some new music we are about to release!
Catch Lingo live at Buckhead Theatre Sat. Nov. 8. Tickets are $30 advance, $35 day of show. Doors open at 8pm.
