The Fabrockators, comprised of Craig Pavone: vocals, guitar, bass, keyboard and John Wilding: drums, percussion, backing vocals, is Southern Maryland's generous offering to the rock/hard rock circuit. After years of paying in different cover bands in the Maryland, D.C. metro area, the two linked up. It only took a short time of wailing together onstage to realize Pavone's whiskey-induced throaty vocals were far more worthy of crooning his own lyrics. (The lack of titillating cover-scene circuit helped.) The two ditched the uninspired cover scene to embark on their original work. From there, the creative process did its magic and their first album, Party You Give, a playful energetic old-school rock album, complete with power-chords, and thrumming guitar solos, was conceived. The duet's gritty sound fused with Southern-styled rock makes for one delicious rock and roll romp.
Everything about the debut album, Party You Give, is fast. Songs about fast cars, fast women, and fast times delivered by fast hooks, driving beats, huge lyrics, and pounding rhythms. This album will have you toe-tapping, beer muscling, and Camaro driving within the first two tracks.
Party You Give is a full, big noise album that showcases the musical genius of two bright prospects in the rock arena, and would do even the most modest headbanger proud. They are currently working on their second studio album, where several songs have already made the cut. If they come your way, check them out.
antiMusic caught up with the Fabrockators for a little chat.
antiMusic: How did the Fabrockators come into the equation for a name?
We make custom cars and original music. We believe that The Fabrockators is a fitting name based on those two hobbies.
antiMusic: Talk about how you met, and what were the steps that lead to the formation of your band?
We have been playing in various bands in southern Maryland for many years. After being in a long string of cover bands, we grew tired of playing cover songs and decided to try something different.
antiMusic: What is the benefit of the band only being the two of you? Do you ever consider adding to the lineup?
Many times in bands, there are conflicts of interests between members. We are both on the same page musically, which has allowed us to stay positive and extremely productive. We see no need to bring anyone in at this time.
antiMusic: Why can't I find any pictures of you on your website?
We wanted to add an element of mystery to the band's image.
antiMusic: Talk about the music scene growing up?
There were a lot of great local and national rock bands playing in Maryland and the DC area. We were fortunate to be able to attend a lot of great rock shows.
antiMusic: You are heavily influenced by classic rock and southern style. What was the attraction?
It's what we grew up with, so naturally, it's what we understand and relate to.
antiMusic: How does your environment influence your music and your appreciation for music?
We both appreciate the simple things in life and how man has evolved technically and mechanically. These things have a substantial impact on our music and appreciation of music.
antiMusic: Talk about what it was like growing up and having an interest in playing. Who supported you the most?
Basically, family and friends. It was beneficial to us having musically inclined friends and family members.
antiMusic: If you could play any venue in the world with your choice of musician, who would it be and why?
The Rolling Stones at Texas Motor Speedway. We are fans of The Rolling Stones and also motor sports. It would be great to perform with them at one of the largest speedways in the US.
antiMusic: What do you get out of creating? What purpose does it serve for you?
Well, it gives us a sense of purpose, that we are hopefully entertaining people with our music.
antiMusic: Are you purists? What makes it or breaks it for you on your songwriting?
No, we don't consider ourselves purists, we like to experiment and break the rules. We like to walk a fine line between avant garde and mainstream.
antiMusic: What is most important to you: the rhythm, the lyrics, the melody, or hook of a song?
To us, the most important things are a good rhythm with a driving beat and a solid hook. Anything else is just an added benefit.
antiMusic: Who do you respect currently in the music scene?
We respect all the independent musicians out there like ourselves trying to make it in this business.
antiMusic: How does your background uniquely qualify you to shop your work?
Our musical tastes are uniquely diverse and we understand the important role that musical diversity plays in songwriting.
antiMusic: Talk about recording your album, "Party You Give." Any special meaning behind the name?
The name was taken from the album track of the same name. We thought that title stood out and we were able to tie it in with the album cover art.
antiMusic: Where did you record?
Glamorama Recordings in Huntingtown Maryland.
antiMusic: Who else are you crediting with getting the project from conception to complete work?
Bill Resnick, our resident multi-instrumentalist keyboard genius and music instructor.
Jennifer Shanholtzer's angelic voice and expert vocal ability.
Steve Carr at Hit & Run recording, our genius studio engineer.
antiMusic: What did you learn through the process about yourself, the band, and the process?
We're continuously learning what works, what doesn't, and how to put it all together.
antiMusic: What expectations were met and what expectations were blown away by the process?
We were able to release an album of solid rock music that we were both pleased with. We were blown away with how well we work together. The flow of ideas is almost non-stop.
antiMusic: How do you handle creative differences?
There are none to handle since we don't have any.
antiMusic: What is your most defining track n the album and why?
"Traveling". It was the first song we recorded for the album and it accurately represents our sound and the type of songs we write.
antiMusic: Can you tell our readers about the muse or inspiration behind your favorite track?
Our favorite track is, "Hot Rod". The lyrics were inspired by a custom big block '64 Corvette built by John and the music was inspired by Chuck Berry.
antiMusic: Talk about your successes to date? Where do you see yourselves in the next year?
Everyone who has heard the album likes it, so we consider that a success. We see ourselves continuing to make solid rock music available to the public.
antiMusic: The internet has crashed down doors that only record labels used to be able to open, how have you benefited from social media?
Social media is a powerful tool and we have benefited from it immensely. It has allowed us to reach out to people all over the world.
Share this article
CD Info and Links
First Look: The Fabrockators
Preview and Purchase This CD Online
On The Record: The dB's- Rick Monroe and the Hitmen- Atlas Maior- Stoned Jesus
Hot In The City: Lou Malnati's Pizzeria Opens in Surprise, Arizona
What's Doing With Dave Koz? Christmas Carols and Cool Cruises!
On The Record: Craft Recordings Announces Record Store Day Exclusives
Live: T Bone Burnett Rocks Phoenix
Zakk Wylde, Kenny Wayne Shephard Lead 2025 Experience Hendrix Tour Lineup
3rd Annual Kid Rock's Comedy Jam Announced
Social Distortion, Peter Hook Lead Punk Rock Bowling & Music Festival Lineup
King Diamond Cancels 3 North American Headlining Tour Dates
Sammy Hagar Shares Trailer For Best Of All Worlds Las Vegas Residency
Ghost To Share Sister Imperator Origin Story With New Comic Series
Riverside Announce Live ID Album With 'Landmine Blast' Video
John Petrucci and Rick Beato Make Cameos In Ola Englund's 'Game Over' Video