Independent band comes home tonight
Acoustic Syndicate set to play Legends as part of three-state tour

In the touch-and-go world of independent music, Acoustic Syndicate has managed to maintain the key elements to ensure a band’s longevity: a constant flow of albums and a loyal fan base that rivals the likes of any local band in North Carolina.

“We try to play in Boone once or twice a year,” said drummer Fritz McMurry. “We were living in Boone in the mid-eighties and started playing at the Klondike Cafe. It’s where we got started, so it’s special to us.”

At the band’s Web site, their message board is flooded with die-hard fans swapping set lists, commentary on shows and live recordings.
One post was put up alerting fans that on Feb. 23, WASU 90.5 DJ Jon Magee would be dedicating his two-hour show to Acoustic Syndicate, taking caller requests for their favorite songs. The news was met with an enthusiastic response.

“The fans have helped spread the music from the East Coast to the West,” said Fritz.

The musical style of Acoustic Syndicate is one that’s hard to classify.
On their latest release, “Crazy Little Life,” one can be reminded of the soulful vocals and lyrical style of Dave Matthews, combined with upbeat, jazz-infused musicianship. An amalgamation of rock attitude with heavy doses of folk, country and bluegrass, Acoustic Syndicate truly has a style that is all its own.

The makeup of the Acoustic Syndicate proves family really matters.
The band is partially comprised of brothers Fitz and Bryon McMurry, along with cousin Steve McMurry. The three grew up playing music together in Cleveland County. They were joined by Boone resident Jay Sanders and formed Acoustic Syndicate with Fritz on drums and vocals, Bryon playing banjo and vocals, Steve on guitar, mandolin and vocals and Sanders on bass.

The band’s career spans almost two decades and three CDs, the first of which was their self-titled album in 1996, followed up three years later by the release of “Tributaries.” They released “Crazy Little Life” in 2000 and are currently in the final stages of mixing down their forthcoming live album.

“We’re going to release the album sometime in late spring or early summer,” said Fritz.

Also in the works is a studio album of new material scheduled for nationwide distribution.

Acoustic Syndicate won listeners over not only with their albums but also with their live performances.

“They’re high-energy shows,” said Fritz. “Everybody participates.
We interact with the audience and throw back the energy they give to us.”

The touring schedule of the band is an extensive one. With dates booked all the way into June, the band will be performing all over North Carolina, as well as making stops in Tennessee and traveling as far west as Arkansas.

For further information on Acoustic Syndicate, visit the Web site at: www.acousticsyndicate. com.

The band will perform tonight at 9 p.m. in Legends. The show is being presented by A.P.P.S. Stage Shows. Tickets are $8 in advance and can be purchased at the main desk in Plemmons Student Union. Tickets will also be available at the door for $10. The event is BYOB with a six-pack limit.