Since 1999, the Velmas -
bassist Todd “Figaro” Minnick, guitarist Mike “Harvey” Grosshandler and
drummer Michael “Bruce” Bruce - have been entertaining upstate New
York. The band has become a favorite around Albany and Syracuse, NY,
and is gaining popularity throughout the Northeastern U.S.
In 2002, the
Velmas released their debut album, Another Day At School. Since its
release, the album has received rave reviews and has opened doors of
opportunity for the band. This was followed by Recess (2004), a “double EP” featuring new
and unreleased studio tracks, as well as several live tracks. The
Velmas released their second full-length album, Station, on City
Canyons Records on October 31, 2006.
The Velmas
are three singers and songwriters creating powerful rock music. Their
sound is influenced by old-school to modern rock, punk, reggae, and
even country and classical. In concert, the Velmas back their music
with a playful, high-energy live show, which is the reason why
Albany-area "Velmites" have voted them the Capital Region’s "Best
Alternative Band" (Metroland, 2006 & 2007).