Tanya has been playing music most of her life. Beginning with violin lessons, she then studied piano. She has also tried her hand at saxophone, flute, dulcimer, and guitar.
Early influences included old time fiddle styles of The New Lost City Ramblers, the experimental ethnic rock of The Kaleidoscope, the folk inspired virtuosity of John Renbourn, The Pentangle, & Leo Kottke, In addition to classical orchestra and ensemble. In years past she played 2nd violin in a local orchestra, and continues to play with a chamber quartet.
After years of honing traditional Celtic tunes; playing a regular solo gig, and, with an eclectic, informal dance band, Band of Brigands, she was drawn to traditional folk styles and turned to discovering and exploring music from other parts of the world. Tanya is the “concert mistress” selecting and arranging the music FRISKY BRISKET plays.
BRISKET
Joshua had another path. Learning the basics of guitar as a preteen student of a singer/songwriter in the 1970's, with a desire to emulate his rock heroes; Neil Young, Stephen Stills, Joe Walsh, & Eric Clapton. He was attracted to both the complexity of Pink Floyd, Jethro Tull, and Yes, as well as the heartfelt ballads of Joni Mitchell, & Cat Stevens.
With a good ear, and training adequate for jamming, he lacked the discipline to advance and eventually put down his guitar to pursue more tangible arts. After years of Dancing Contra, English & Irish country styles and performance oriented Morris dancing, often with Tanya in the band, the need for a strong rhythm gained clarity.
When Tanya began discovering & playing more lyrical romantic dance tunes, He was inspired, and tried his hand at rhythm accompaniment. It worked, and felt good. The learning curve was steep, but an energetic tendency to rock out added an energy they both love.