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Make-Up

(February 1995 - 2000)

Ian Svenonius - vocals
James Canty - guitar, organ, vocals
Michelle Mae - bass, vocals
Steve Gamboa - drums
Make-Up

Make-Up is a group that composes superior, original music, performs that music dynamically in spaces and nightclubs, and organizes the performances at which they appear across the U.S.A. These performances have been characterized by the freneticism, catharsis and spirituality of what can only be described as GOSPEL MUSIC. They are a total departure from the boring pantomime of rock 'n' roll as we know it, inflicting a sublime theatre on their audience which resembles a baptism, or perhaps an orgy. Their 'singer' is typically employed as a lead-chanter, while the others perpetrate a rhythmic drone on the subjects of their "Rhythm Hive." They are, on guitar, microphone and organ, James Canty; on center microphone, Ian Svenonius; on bass guitar and microphone, Michelle Mae and on the drum kit, Steve Gamboa. Ian, Steve and James once were part of The Nation of Ulysses, while Michelle took part in a project called Frumpies. The three were from Washington, D.C. while the one was from Olympia, Washington, but they formed in February 1995 to present their international vision to a world they are sure is steeped in stultifying cynicism. 

Photo: Glen E. Friedman

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