The WMDs

'From Cat Stevens to Jay-Z, The WMDs experiment with all kinds of music. Don't mistake The WMDs for just another cover band, though. When you see them live, their personal sound creeps into their covers, which is enough to help listeners re-discover even their own favorite songs.'

-Jaime Zublick, Williamsport Sun Gazette

The WMDs are a multi-talented cover band based out of New York City. Since forming in 2004 the band has garnered a national audience with residencies at some of the biggest (and most demanding) clubs throughout the United States. Zublick continues, 'There are few bands out there that can pull off playing Kenny Rogers and Jay-Z in the same evening. But that's what's best about catching The
WMDs live, their set will keep anyone on their feet.'

The band is fronted by singer Brian Bauers, with lead guitar duties handled by Jaime Sturm. Bassist Mike Chiavaro and drummer Paul Amorese round out the line-up. From Classic Rock to old school Hip-Hop medleys, free-style Jams to Top-40, The WMDs can execute a show like no other.

This band has an impressive resume: leader Brian Bauers is an award winning producer, engineer and composer. His composition for Nike's 2003 Pull-up campaign was declared the year's #1 Sound Design by Shoot Magazine. He's played keyboards for Reggae star Matisyahu and produced Kaki King's (Epic)
first album.

Jaime Sturm spent years under the tutelage of guitar masters Dan Converrse and Chris Whitley and has appeared in many aired spots.

Formed in 2004 by singer/songwriter Brian Bauers and guitarist Jaime Sturm, The WMDs blend timeless songwriting and aggressive guitar work to underscore ambitious lyrics and catchy hooks. The sound of The WMDs has been compared to Radiohead meets Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. The band's line up is completed by drummer Paul Amorese (Bacci, Hypnotic Clambake) and bassist Mike Chiavaro (Lenka Dusilova, Spencer Day).

Their unique sound has caught on quickly with crowds throughout the Northeast and recent years of touring and radio play have garnered the band a loyal following in markets across the U.S. The WMDs aren't afraid to mix it up. Covers that range from Africa (Toto) to Jay-Z's Hustler showcase the band's dexterity, and fearlessness to keep the crowds moving.

The WMDs cut their teeth on Manhattan's Lower East Side, becoming regulars at venues such as Piano's, Rockwood Music Hall and the legendary rooms CBGB's and Luna Lounge, the Ludlow street crawl that spawned The Strokes and Interpol. The group's first single, "New Amsterdam", received several awards from (link hidden) including Best Lyrics, Best Male Vocals and Track of the Day over several weeks in 2005. This same single was also rated "#1 Mix Most Requested" by 94.1 Las Vegas, "most notable new music" on XM Radio, and is in rotation at KSMT (CO), WRLC (NJ), WSNU (PA), KRSX (ID), WWCD (OH), KGNU (CO), and KCLA (CA).

The members of the The WMDs have impressive resumes:

Brian Bauers is an award winning producer, engineer, vocalist and composer. His 2003 Nike "Pull Up" campaign was declared the year's "No.1 Sound Design" by Shoot Magazine. His resume also includes producing guitarist Kaki King's first album, "Everybody Loves You" (Epic), and playing keyboards in reggae star Matisyahu's live band. He has contributed production, songwriting and session work for names like Gavin Degraw, Akon, Jojo, Nike, AOL, BlueFly, and BMW to name a few.

Jaime Sturm has been playing guitar professionally in New York City for 10 years. He studied with jazz legend Dan Converse and spent many months under the tutelage of experimental guitarist and songwriter Chris Whitley. Along with co-writing and performing with The WMDs, Jaime also performs with New York City groups Bacci, (link hidden)ms, and Kirsten Dehaan Band. His guitar can be heard on several recordings and television spots including commercials for Exxon-Mobile, Kraft Foods and Sears.

Paul Amorese, drummer and percussionist, plays on both WMDs albums. He's toured the country with several acts including Hypnotic Clambake and Bacci. He has shared the stage with artists such as Wyclef Jean, John Mayer, Fishbone, John Entwhistle (The Who), Jefferson Starship, TommyChong, Jesse McCartney and Joss Stone. In addition, Paul performs as a New York session drummer for upcoming artists and commercials.

Mike Chiavaro is the newest addition on bass. Mike graduated from Eastman School of Music and has toured with many national acts. At 25 years old, his meticulous musicianship is reflected in his session work at Sony Music with producers Phil Ramone (Paul Simon, Billy Joel), Jack Douglas (Aerosmith, John Lennon) and international tours with two-time Grammy award winning singer Lenka Dusilova.

Their self-titled debut "The WMDs", and their sophomore effort, "We are Waves" are available on iTunes.

We offer two price points for a typical 3-4 hour wedding reception outside the NYC area. All prices include sound equipment, cartage, travel and musician costs. Our popular 4-piece band features three vocalists, guitars, drums and bass. Our 5-piece band includes our keyboard player or an additional guitarist/vocalist. We are happy to provide cocktail hour and/or ceremony music and it is included in the price with the 5-piece. On a side note, while we have played many weddings and large events as a 4-piece, I recommend the 5-piece for weddings. It just makes the overall sound a little "bigger" and expands our repertoire. Either way, we guarantee you and your guests an unforgettable show that will keep everyone on their feet.