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Who is Craig?
Since 2003, Craig's style of live entertainment has been a force to be reckoned with in Central Massachusetts. With varying musical backgrounds, Craig is a modern day rock band. Highly energetic and entertaining, their music is progressive, groove-oriented, heavy, poppy, and classic, all rolled into one. This experienced rock band has wowed audiences all over New England, playing over 100 gigs a year. With singer/songwriter Sam James (vocals/guitar) added to the band in 2006, the band is rounded out with founding members Chris Conte (drums), Neall Russell (bass/vocals), and Paul Courchaine (guitar/vocals). The group of twenty-somethings have a knack for getting noticed, and with a very loyal fan base and highly publicized promotions their shows always have an energy unlike any other.
The three founding members formed the band while attending high school in Worcester, MA. Paul Courchaine went on to earn a degree in music, while Chris Conte completed a music minor. The three continued their extensive practice and performance schedule through even the busiest times, recently sharing a bill with American Idol finalists Kevin Covais and Melissa McGhee. The addition of Sam James in February of 2006 completed the group, and added an experienced and respected musician to the already talented group. Fresh off an extended east coast tour, Sam has performed alongside such well-known artists as Third Eye Blind, Robert Randolph, John Popper, Rusted Root, Chuck Berry, Kid Rock, and the Pussycat Dolls. He has also performed on the Fox 25 morning news.
Craig was Worcester Magazine's 2005 Turtle Boy Music Award winners for both Best New Band and Best Live Band, and received several nominations in 2006. They were also one of Boston Globe's Spotlight Picks. They have been featured in the Worcester Telegram, the Worcester Magazine, and the Pulse magazine.
Charlene Arsenault, the events editor of Worcester Magazine described the band as a hard-working, promotion powerhouse, "With a newly defined sound and a strong following, Craig's an easily recognizable name around these parts." (Worcester Magazine, Volume 31, Number 47).
Their live shows are something of a legend in Central Massachusetts. Hila Bernstein of the Pulse magazine tried to explain just what it was that brings people out to Craig shows. "The band has a number of dedicated F.O.C.s (Fans of Craig), so they try to keep their shows fresh…there are jokes, contests and plenty of opportunities for the audience to get involved. Plus, Craig's members are accomplished musicians and often improvise during live performances, reworking their songs and covers." (The Pulse, Entertainment Beat, February 2005)
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