It became evident that music would be a big part of Tom’s life when, at about age 4, he heard “Wipeout” on the radio and began rocking… literally, in his chair.  The sound of the music triggered a physical response, and has continued to do so to this very day!  Big Brother Bob, always on the “cutting edge” musically, if not socially (kidding!), was always willing to share his albums, 45’s, and beloved 8-tracks…. oh, the good ol’ days! Bachman Turner Overdrive was the first group to really make an impression, followed by a 4-year obsession with KISS.  Tom did attempt a few guitar lessons in 8^th grade at the “suggestion” of his parents, but “Jimmy Cracked Corn” and “Jingle Bells” just didn’t light the fire.  Evidence of Tom’s frustration can be seen in the cracked guitar hanging in his parents’ basement.  It was during this time period, however, that Tom mastered the art of air guitar and honed many a stage move.  Tennis rackets or pool cues were all that were needed for the weekly KISS concerts in the basement.  AC/DC was next, then Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple and Hendrix.

            As much as Tom listened to this music, the idea of actually playing it himself didn’t really occur until friend Chris Hamm scored a Hondo Les Paul copy.  Tom had to have one, too, and his parents (or was it Santa?) bought him an Ibanez guitar and Fender amp during his senior year of high school.  Thanks to some lessons from Dave Smith at Hawk Music, Tom learned to play songs that he loved to hear…and the fire was finally lit!  No more “Jimmy Cracked Corn”!  Brothers Tom and Bob formed the classic rock band STONEY LONESOME, enjoying much local popularity over the years.  After several personnel changes, the STONEY era culminated with the recording of the “About Time” cd, consisting of all original tunes written with good friend Hank Brosky.  Tom cherishes all the great times he had during the STONEY LONESOME years.

            But changes were blowin’ in the wind.  When Tom, then in college, heard a cassette tape of a relatively unknown Texan named Stevie Ray Vaughan, life would never be the same.  SRV’s power, emotion, tone and technique made Tom realize that music was so much deeper than he had ever realized.  Blues wasn’t just when Zeppelin or Hendrix played a slow song; it was a true expression of human emotion at its very core.  Studying Vaughan’s music and influences naturally led Tom back in time to the originators of this great music, from the 60’s, 50’s, and even back to the 20’s and before.  Another huge influence at this time was the Allman Brothers Band.  Dickey Betts’ strong melodic sense and tone, as well as Duane Allman’s otherworldly slide playing, remain a profound influence that can be heard almost every time Tom picks up his guitar. 

            The blues called, and Tom answered. With a heavy heart, Tom decided to leave STONEY LONESOME to create an avenue for his newfound passion.  Hence, the BRYANT BROTHERS BLUES BREW was born.  The BREW has gone through several incarnations, all of which have made them a popular draw in the Lehigh Valley.  When bass player/vocalist Craig Hay came to the fold, the band took a slight shift in musical direction.  Now more of a blues/rock/jam band, the newly dubbed BRYANT BROS. love to put their own spin on classic (and obscure) blues and rock tunes, with a strong emphasis on group improvisation.  The chemistry of the band is obvious to all those who see them perform.  If you want to see the real deal, come check out the BRYANT BROS.!

            Tom would like to say - thank you to all band members, past and present – so many great times!  Brother Bob, in particular – thank you for teaching me that music isn’t the only important thing about being in a band; being a good person sure goes a long way.  Your “friends first” motto has served us well, bro!  Here’s to many more years of making great music!  Finally, a big thank you to my wife, Joanne, for her encouragement and tolerance over the years, and to my sons Lee and Vaughan… maybe they will continue the BRYANT BROS. legacy one day!

In a time long ago, in a land far away…Allentown, east side…

First and only drum lesson at age 5.  Reprimanded by instructor for moving through manual too quickly.  Had desire to teach self, only to find an immediate disadvantage living in a row home – not a place conducive to drumming.  Led to musical hiatus until moving to Northampton suburbs in 4^th grade.  Music career resumes, but with 3 years of forced guitar lessons, leading to lack of enthusiasm for instrument.  (Parents must have had him confused with soon-to-be guitar wizard brother!)  Interest in drumming, however, never wanes, and employment as a runner at a local auction house allows this 8^th grader to save for and soon purchase a 3 piece Del Ray blue sparkle kit and cheap stereo and headphones.  Self-taught lessons resume while playing along with favorite tunes in tolerating parents’ basement.  Several jobs and one 5 piece used Ludwig kit later, kid brother becomes guitar enthusiast, destined for greatness on his chosen instrument.  Together, the early days of the Bryant Brothers begin with endless hours of basement jam sessions honing skills and crafting chemistry, tolerated admirably by parents who soon became proud owners of a cracked ceiling!

            Fast forward a few years.  Grandma Bryant passes away, leaving a generous (and much appreciated!) sum to Bob and Tom to use for something they always wanted, not needed.  One look at each other was all that was needed.  One 11 piece Neil Peart Tama Superstar drum set (in original candy apple red color) combined with brother’s Fender Strat and Marshall stack, and it was time to do some serious rockin’!  Local buddies Brad “Schleprock” Creyer (bass/vocals) and Chris “Hambone” Hamm (vocals/guitar) are added and STONEY LONESOME, first official band, is born.  Band goes on to achieve success as a very popular local club band.  Several band evolutions occur with changing personnel, the apex of which involved creating the “About Time” cd with dear friend Hank Brosky (guitar/vocals) and multi-talented Brian Anthony (bass/vocals/recording engineer).  A truly fabulous era with so many wonderful folks and memories, although some are a bit hazy!

            Band takes new direction toward blues section of music spectrum, as Stevie Ray Vaughan and the Allman Brothers lead brother Tom to his musical destiny.  Hear him play and you will understand.  Brother Bob follows, not wishing to drum with anyone else…provided he is free to pound his skins in any manner his instincts dictate.  Surprisingly, the burly rocker catches the blues fever and the BRYANT BROTHERS BLUES BREW era is underway.  Again, several personnel evolutions occur (special thanks to all past members, Scott Carl in particular), along with some musical tweaking as well.  This leads to current lineup known now simply as the BRYANT BROS., a blues/rock/jam band of phenomenal chemistry, energy, talent, and just plain fun!

            Bob would like to say - thanks, first and foremost, to Craig Hay (bass/vocals/sound/grunt work), as well as Dave Small (harmonica/steak and eggs), Danny Batarick (coronet/killer homemade wine), Pete Orlando (percussion/drums/website/seller of his Pearl drum kit), Otterman, Stip, Jake, and “Reverend” King Curtis (sound/roadies), Stevie Ray and Miss Terry Ward (spiritual aid), and so many other wonderful supporters, fans, and friends!  Oh yeah….thank you, Brother Tom, for being the best guitarist (and fine vocals, too!), best friend, and second best brother (after me, of course!) one could ever hope for!  Your passion and talent is what drives our train!  Last but not least, is a special thank you to the most special person of all, my beloved Laurie Jo!  Because of your love and tolerance over so many years, I am one truly lucky man!

                                                                                    BONZO BOBBY

P.S.   Musical inspirations, among others: Bonham, Baker, Rich, Krupa, Ward, Palmer, Pace, Peart, Powell, the Appices, Ulrich, Orlando…to name a few!  

Brothers……………..something about brothers

My first real band         boy was I fortunate

To be part of “Spirit Of America”

We displayed the STARS AND STRIPES       proudly and prominently

Dave and Barb Eisenhauer        Darrell McAlexander

We were tight               onstage and off

We were tight               onstage and off

Mid-career       boy was I fortunate

To be part of “Stars ‘N Bars”

We displayed the STARS AND BARS            proudly and prominently

Joey and Louie Kovecses         Gary Wenhold              Joe Albeck

We were tight               onstage and off

We were tight               onstage and off

So here we are             boy am I fortunate

To be one of “The Bryant Brothers”     

We display THE STARS AND STRIPES, THE STARS AND BARS, POW/MIA,

And THE JOLLY ROGER       proudly and prominently

Bob and Tom Bryant      Dave Small   Danny Batarick   Pete Orlando

We are tight                  onstage and off

We are tight                  onstage and off

We are tight                 

The Bryant Brothers never imagined having a cornet player in their band, but somehow Danny Batarick found his way onto the scene, and his playing and personality fit right in with the band from day one.  Danny has had the privilege of playing with Rick Braun while still in school, and many years later in the United States Navy Band with his friend, the late Cornelius Bumpus of the Doobie Brothers.  Some of Danny’s sources of inspiration are Herb Albert, Al Hirt, and Louis Armstrong.  Whether playing bass, accordion, or cornet, music has always been a passion he feels blessed to have been given.  And as sweet as the music he plays is to our ears, the wine that he makes does the same for our taste buds!