Red Penguin (2005-2008)

Red Penguin was formed at The Digital Cup in April 2005, as Chris McGraw (guitar), Levon Bryan (vocals/keyboards), Mike Collins (drums/vocals), and Gabe Serrencha (bass). The name was a last minute, rather random choice inspired by a red box of Penguin Mints. Our initial set consisted of a few originals I had written, mixed with some covers. We eventually had a set of entirely original songs written with input by the whole band, but it happened that I usually composed the music while Levon wrote the lyrics. We busily rehearsed and played gigs all across south central Alaska, hitting every major and minor venue between Wasilla, Palmer and Anchorage. Some of my best and worst live shows were with Red Penguin.

In 2006 we produced an EP and a few other singles. We ended up headlining major venues, and we had some limited airplay and a live performance on local radio. We became regulars in the local music scene. I was sometimes approached in public places by strangers who said they were fans.

For playing gigs I bought a Crate 120 watt amp head with two 4x12 cabs, and started acquiring effects pedals. In particular, I used a Boss DD-20 Digital Delay pedal, a Morley Little Alligator volume, and a Bad Horsie 2 wah pedal. For recording I continued to use the Hughes & Kettner Tubeman. In 2007 I bought an Epiphone Dot Studio, which I used to record the guitars on “Sheep.”

I also taught guitar lessons during this time, until I left the state in 2008. At my busiest, I had 10 regular weekly students, ranging in age from very young to very old, and in skill from beginner to advanced.