As we walked into an empty Knitting Factory, I thought to myself “Wow, the economy really does suck.” That didn’t last very long. Within minutes of Off The Deep End’s first song, a huge crowd developed before our eyes. Going into the show, I really wasn’t sure what to expect from a four-piece rock band; one of those pieces being the electric cello. I was utterly speechless and amazed by what I saw next.
Off The Deep End has officially only been together for under a year. They originally started as an acoustic guitar and cello duo, but one thing lead to another and they ended up in the progressive metal category.
I really do hate giving one person in a band all the attention, but Tina Guo steals the show. The only way I can explain the way a cello sounds with distortion and a wah pedal while Tina’s tiny hand is flying across the entire fretboard: AWESOME!!! Saying that Tina is a talented musician is understatement. At the age of 22, she is one of the most gifted musicians I have ever listened to. Her personal resume’ alone will make your jaw drop to the floor. She has toured the world with her cello playing with some of the world’s finest and most famous orchestras.
Although the rest of the band seems to take a backseat to their musical prodigy, they shouldn’t be overlooked. Keeping the thick and rockin’ beats in the rhythm section are Michael Wallace on bass and Tom Plumb on drums. On lead vocals and guitar is Baraka. His aggressive vocals are an excellent complement to the heavy guitar riffs and cello melodies. Their sound reminds me off a harder version of the band “Live.”
Off The Deep End really deserves a spot on everyone’s playlist. For music and news, check them out at www.myspace.com/otdeband. Be on the look off for their first EP which is due out very soon. Also, be sure to check out Tina Guo’s website at www.tinaguo.com.
