Astoria-Based Band BBS Hopes To Make The Big Time
BY DIANA SANDERS

Astoria was once the home of legendary singer Tony Bennett, Academy Award-winning actor Christopher Walken and even Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist John Frusciante. These are now household names, but once they were struggling, even though they knew they were meant for something other than a nine to five job.

Years later, Astoria is still producing talent that's beginning to make its mark. Local band Bound By Substance originated in Astoria in 1998 with neighbors Matt Farina, a drummer, and guitarist Dino Colacito. They soon added bassist Angelo Marino. In 2003, the group completed its search by adding singer/keyboardist Henry Rzonca. The quartet has been making music together ever since.

Bound By Substance released its first original fivetrack E.P., "Rusted Time", in 2005, offering the listener a fair representation of what they are all about. Their blend of rock from the '70s and alternative grunge from the '90s has created an original sound displayed through eclectic material. Maiko Sakai, the consultant of the band has been devoted to the advancement of their music, taking on marketing and promotion of the album. Distinctive bass lines cohesively arranged with the drums, piercing guitar solos and inimitable piano bits seem to be a formula for the band's music.

BBS, as they are often referred to can be seen performing around the many clubs and bars in Manhattan. In fact, the band performed at Manhattan's own acclaimed music club The Bitter End on Friday March 10th, bringing energy to the table, and then some. They rocked out with the audience, comprised of some friends, fans, club regulars and maybe even a few

groupies. The nine-song set, which

included the album tracks also featured

new material, including the uptempo,

melodically catchy piece titled

"Act Three" that rocked the house, and

displayed Colacito's exceptional guitar skills.

Like "Act Three", other pieces such as "Stagnant Movement"

and "Mediate" got the crowd going, while softer pieces like

"Drink The Water" intensified

the scene. The diversity of the

different tunes formed an

entertained audience and an enjoyable

show. The unique aspect of

BBS seems to be the diversity in its

members. From Colacito's rocker

edge to Marino's serene presence,

each member depicts his own sense of

self, creating diversified unity.

While Bound by Substance can be compared to other more notable rock bands, these Astoria rockers are out there to show that they have something more to offer.

For more information about Bound By Substance or upcoming show dates, visit www.boundbysubstance.com.