You show up at your local hang to find the vibe is slightly different than usual. A four-piece band has taken one of your favorite tunes from the 90’s (and maybe a decade or two before) and reworked the tune in a funky and groovy kind of way. Gazing around, you notice heads bobbing and toes tapping to the beat of a reimagined version of Coldplay’s “The Scientist”. Next, you look at the stage and see what everyone on your street has been talking about: The Sketchy Neighbors.
The Sketchy Neighbors started their musical journey in January 2020, but the neighborhood was not quite ready to embrace the sketchiness of this band. However, by virtue of the earth’s consistent trips around the sun, Damian Horne (band brainchild, audio-visual guru/guitarist/vocalist) woke up one day realizing his 50th trip was quickly approaching. Luckily, Damian had recently met a young lad who mentioned he played bass and liked to get a little funky. Zach Agoff (father of two young children, professor extraordinaire/bassist) alluded that he would be happy to join Damian on the stage to celebrate his birthday. As Zach put it, “I love my family, but my chops need not be forgotten! Let’s rock!” Not quite love at first sight, but definitely a little sketchy.
Meanwhile, Brian Steckler (composer, producer, woodworker/keyboardist/backing vocalist) was always on Damian’s mind because they have a history of performing and recording together for over 20 years! One of Damian’s favorite gifts he gave himself for his 50th was, well, Brian Steckler. (There’s a rumor that the multi-colored bow that came with Brian is still lurking somewhere in Damian’s garage. Weird? Nah, just a little sketchy.)
And finally, Brian introduced Damian to Charlie Serrano (teacher/lover of a good cookie/drummer), another local Auburn staple. But the real reason Damian knocked on Charlie’s door was that it was winter break for school and Damian knew that Charlie was annoying his neighbors by beating on his drums along to the music from his headphones. All beats, no melody (he ain’t no John Bonham!) Damian, being good at math, added it up: he’s not at work, he’s bored, he needs a band. And so, as per many band origin stories, four grown men showed up in Charlie’s garage, bringing rhythm, melodies, and groovy tunes to the neighborhood. And still to this day, many “normal” people walk by and hear a sound that is familiar, yet different, and think to themselves, “Seems a little sketchy, but I want to hear more.”
Decide for yourself by bringing them into your neighborhood party or brewery, and do some lurking on their social links above to learn more about The Sketchy Neighbors.
