Eclipse is the new release from ESP. The CD features several songs from our 2000 EP, as well as two unreleased tracks, and two live versions. The songs from the earlier EP have been remixed and re-mastered, and the results are phenomenal. The disc is also something of a tribute to late bassist Gary Strater, and the years 1996-2003 that he was part of the line-up also featuring founding member Lou DiBello on guitar and backing vocals, Kelly Hazel on lead vocals, and Tommy Garza on drums. Live, Gary and Kelly sang many great two-part harmonies, and on the CD Kelly contributes great harmonies as well.
ESP began in 1994, when Lou and Kelly rejoined forces after previously playing together with legendary Midwest rockers Blanche Talley. In 1996 Gary and Tommy joined. Lou had played with Tommy previously in the studio and in Belladonna, Lou’s stopover after Talley and the precursor to ESP. Lou and Gary and Tommy were also playing together in Electric Sky, so it seemed like a good idea for them to join ESP. Gary and Tommy also brought a rich history to the table, both having been in well know regional/national acts. Gary was a founding member of internationally known progressive rock act Starcastle, and Tommy was with The Rave and Last Gentlemen. This line-up of Lou, Kelly, Gary and Tommy produced a fantastic chemistry, and the band played 100 shows/year to great crowd response for the next 6 years.
2003 saw some changes for the band, but when Gary was diagnosed with cancer that fall, the four members reunited to play some final dates together. Sadly Gary passed away in September 2004. The surviving 3 members dedicate this CD to him.
ESP still plays regularly, if not as frequently, in the downstate Illinois area. Lou and Kelly are now joined by Josh Walden on bass and Jeff Magby on drums, although Tommy is known to make an appearance from time to time. We hope you will check out the tunes and buy a CD!!
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