Recently I had the delight of sitting down one on one with Mike Pedersen of "elephantbear", a rock/jam band from the Plattsburgh/Burlington area that has advanced a strong and dedicated following. Pedersen was born and raised in Plattsburgh, New York and returned after graduating from Ithaca College in 2000 with a degree in corporate communications. The band formed in December 2007, and soon released their debut album in February, 2008. The album is titled 'Hide n Go Seek' and has received great reviews from Burlington, Plattsburgh and other media outlets.
"Elephantbear" is comprised of lead singer/songwriter and guitarist Mike Pedersen, guitarist Jamie Durivage, bassist George Facteau, and Tim Collins on drums and vocals. Collins also assists with writing songs. "Elephantbear" has a truly unique vibe as the band members' techniques range from first-rate rock to jazz to funk with a small bit of everything in between. The band's blend of genres captivates audiences, and draws in those naturally inclined to stand apart.
When asked about how the name "elephantbear" came to be, Mike responded cheerfully that while growing up he had two stuffed animals, an elephant and a bear. To this day, Pedersen has that childhood memorabilia stored away at home. One day while reflecting upon the toys with Collins, the name was born. Mike said that, through the eyes of a child the elephant and bear appear to be innocent, lovable creatures but when viewed by an adult the two take the appearance of worn, rough creatures with a sense of maturity. For those in attendance at the shows, this blend of youth mixed with the maturity of life's hard learned lessons is exactly what "elephantbear" brings to the show.
When asked, "Who do you respect most in the music industry?" Mike replied humbly, "all the amazing citizen I have had the occasion to work with."
Each show brings about opportunities for "elephantbear" to connect with new and old "wonderful people." For example, earlier this year Pat Gallagher, booking agent at Olive Ridley's and the Naked Turtle in downtown Plattsburgh, booked "elephantbear" to open for the Honeywell show as an acoustic duo. That show in case,granted a wonderful occasion for Pedersen and Facteau to connect on stage with Russ Lawton, the drummer of Trey Annistasio's first-rate T.A.B. And also for Strangefolk, a rock/jam band from Vermont. The rapport immediately built in the middle of Pedersen and Lawton was so great that Pedersen later contacted Lawton about the possibilities of playing with the group as a extra guest. After a brief duration of time, Lawton joined the band as a extra guest at the 20 Main's Halloween Party in Ausable, Ny. I asked Pedersen about this feel and he replied "Every time I have the occasion to work with Russ I know it is going to be an awesome time!" It appears that fans can surely expect to see Lawton appear in hereafter events with the band.
A fan, MobileDan wrote into Plattsburgh Pipeline and wants to know, "What were you listening to before you were able to touch the dial?" Mike says, "Early childhood memories of music are mainly of what my father listened to, such as the Moody Blues and the Beatles, pretty much 50's and 60's rock." While Pedersen also admits that his mother's music range is less than extensive, he also says that both his parents have been very supportive during his musical career.
Keep your eyes out for "elephantbear"! The band is scheduled to play at 20 Main in Ausable, New York, on December 5th, with extra guests Andy Deller on the keys and Ryan Trumbull on drums. Both Deller and Trumbull are members of a well known and loved band from Plattsburgh called "Lucid". The band will also be playing at Olive Ridley's X-mas party on December 25. Both shows begin at 10:00pm, so don't be late! Additionally, Mike, Jamie and George will be playing an acoustic show at Irises Wine and Cafe Bar on December 18, 2008. At 7:00pm
When he's not playing with the band, Petersen hosts 'open mike night' at the Monopole every Wednesday from 10pm - 2am. Be sure to visit with him and see other extra guests from local area bands. Whatever concerned in performing should stop by and add to the entertainment.
From the Pipeline - Mike Pedersen - "Elephantbear"