THUNDER BAY – Special to NNL – As you sit down with the boys you can actually see the diamonds developing on the soles of their shoes. Cam Thomas, the lead guitar player and co-founder of Altamadum smiles and talks about how far they’ve come. Cam’s musical influences stem from the classic rock era to the glam rock of the 80’s. Avenge Sevenfold’s Synyster Gates has made quite the impact on the aspiring guitar player and has helped him find his own style.
Cam is very grateful having been exposed to his Dad’s vintage vinyl collection at an early age that initially peaked his interest. With his good looks and a confidence to match his rock star status, an aspiring model is in the midst as a possible second career choice he may pursue down the road.
Sam Mucha has the microphone domination all wrapped up in a small package of fury. When you talk to Sam you can see his mind working overtime, never enough, always going and pursuing new and different ideas. He’s the visionary of the band, and can see great success for all of them.
Having deep roots musically, Sam follows behind a lineage of musicians on his dad’s side that has ultimately paid off. “If I’m not working I’m writing music. Music is my life,” and he goes on to explain writing as a solo performer as well as being front man for Altamadum.
What can you say about rhythm guitar player Joey Parker? He’s a pleasant fella, quiet at first until he gets going. He has a dry sense of humor with every second word coming out as a long beep for the PG- 13’ers.
I can tell you one thing though, he picks up his instrument and the sounds that come from his guitar can charm the pants right off a statue. Joey was the original singer before Sam came on board over a year ago so it was a transition that came easy to him. He remembers when he first picked up a guitar and how his grandfather helped open his eyes to gospel and Celtic music when he was younger, allowing him to appreciate all genres of music and helped develop his own sound with his antique guitar.
“I’m just thankful that people are happy with our sound. It makes it that much easier for us to put out new material,” says Joey.
James Cole is the bass player and band appointed manager. No suit required for this guy. Unlike his band mates, guitar wasn’t his first love. “I was in a really bad motorcycle accident years ago that finished my hockey career. That alone would immobilize the hopes and dreams of any teenager”.
As luck would have it, James found solace in music. “I tried the guitar for a few months had a knack for it then switched to the bass that fit him perfect”. Playing for just under a half year then joining Altamadum solidified his destiny.
James’ uncle, Russell Elder has helped tweak and smooth the bands sound development as their Audio Tech. He is a veteran when it comes to providing quality sound and just a huge asset to the advancement of the group. Having resources like Russell at their disposal doesn’t happen everyday and that’s why he’s deemed Altamadum’s “secret weapon”.
Brendan Byers is the happy go lucky drummer always joking around and having a good time. Cam says “Brendan is the craziest one in the band, he even wrestles pigs!!” James says laughing, “Don’t even get me started, way too many stories to choose from”.
Born in Manitoba, raised in the Great White North, this ruffian has more then paid his dues to Altamadum. Being co-founder he’s seen it grow from conception and is very proud of the accomplishments and popularity.
“We all bring material to the table and we vote on which ones stay and which ones we use. A lot gets put to the side until we need it for future projects, but my drums are perfected once every one else’s instruments are fused together properly before I add my dynamics to it”.
Check out Altamadum social stream:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/ALTAMADUM/142455889099510?sk=wall
http://www.myspace.com/altamadum
The energy and the want to reach supreme greatness is imminent for Altamadum.
Raechel Reed
MMG (an Urban Boutique company)
Check out The Urban Boutique on facebook.com/urbanboutique