Turncoat

Who are all the members of your band, and what do they play?

James Luevane - Bass & Vocals
Keith Gutierrez - Guitars & Vocals
Robert Krimson - Frontman, Keyboards & Vocals
Pep Alvarez - Drums

When did the band get together, and how?

(From a third-person POV): The band got together back in mid 2005 after letting go of former female lead singer Angel Chacon. Back then, the line-up was known as Brake-45 (Bryan Witting, Robert Krimson, Angel Chacon, Keith Gutierrez, Earl Stagger). Angel was voted out without her knowledge and when it came down to selecting a name for the band, original bassist Bryan Witting, suggested 'Turncoat', which is "one who traitorously switches allegiance". Despite any fall-out, the current line-up remains friends and collaborators with past members.

Turncoat has seen changes in the line-up since 2006 when Bryan Witting was replaced with James Luevane on bass. The drummer line-up, has also gone through changes with Earl Stagger, Hector Amparan, Eddie Tarin, and Rey Guerrero. Recently, Pep Alvarez, joined the band as the 4th element on drums. Guitarist Jose Cepeda momentarily joined the band on guitar in 2009. Robert left the band on several occasions, but is now back on board. With Keith Gutierrez on guitars, vocals and sound, the band continues to work on new songs as well as originals.

How would you describe your music to someone?

Our music is a collection of Classic, Hard and Modern Rock that will not scare away your mom. We strive to add a variety of rock styles to our catalog, and not stick to a particular style of rock. This is where the name 'Turncoat' comes in play as well.

Who are some of the bands that influence your music?

There is a lot of the 80's rock sound, as well from the 90's that we've embraced, that we've grown to add our own musical touch to the new stuff we learn. After listening to our rendition of Journey's 'Separate Ways', someone mentioned to us, it was like listening to Journey on steroids.

What is your most memorable gig so far?

Our most memorable gigs are always playing at Balloon Fest or during Street Fest inside The Dome Bar. Nothing like getting a rockin' response from the masses!

Are you currently signed to any kind of label or management?

Presently, we are not signed to any label or management team.

What other bands have your members been/are in?

Pep Alvarez played with Border Roots and is currently playing with Dr. Groove on the side.
Keith Gutierrez has played with Border Roots
Before leaving El Paso, James Luevane played with several rock bands in his day.
Robert Krimson used to play with the BJ Pando Band, Edenia e Imagen, Solido and also performed Christian Music 10 years ago. He is currently part of the line-up of Fire & Ice - A Night with Pat Benatar Tribute Band.