The Heavy Pets

The Heavy Pets are an American rock and roll band whose contagious vibe blends rhythm and blues, jazz-funk and reggae fusion with homegrown rock and roll. Called “a living, breathing, force of nature” by Dan Sweeny of Relix magazine, The Heavy Pets are known for powerhouse performances spiked with hot electric licks and multi-climactic instrumental solos, as well as for their masterful acoustic acumen. In 2007, the group became an instant Sirius radio sensation with the release of their acclaimed double-disc debut album, Whale, driven by hit tracks “Operation of Flight” and “Sleep.” Major festival darlings, The Heavy Pets are regulars at Bonnaroo, moe.down, Langerado, New Orleans Backbeat Jazzfest, and their namesake PetZoo, a two-day, multi-band festival that draws hordes of Pets devotees to Bucks County, PA, to feast on the headliners’ live alchemy. With five skilled musicians, who are also composers and lyricists, The Heavy Pets have amassed a deep catalog of original music that critics call, "full blown musical salvation”; “elegant songwriting with blazing chops, thought-provoking lyrics and a heavy, danceable backbeat”; “funk-reggae rock hybrid that’s laid back and sexy”; and “funky, loose-limbed rock and soul.” Their undeniable magnetism compels audiences to move and groove along a musical journey full of unexpected harmonic treats punctuated with fantastical lyrics revealing inspired philosophical leanings. They were first embraced in the jam scene for their raw talent and tenacious commitment to making great music. But like their unmistakable sound, The Heavy Pets themselves have transcended boundaries, crossing a bridge few bands survive intact - into the still-respected periphery of mainstream music through upbeat, danceable, homegrown, skillfully executed tunes, and passionate live shows that keep crowds lining up for more. Early Years Jeff Lloyd, Mike Garulli and Joe Dupell met at Goshen High School in upstate New York, where Lloyd and Garulli bonded over their guitars and lunchtime jam sessions aimed at wooing the ladies. Years later while at Syracuse University, Lloyd befriended fellow classmate, keyboardist Jim Wuest. While Lloyd, Dupell, Garulli and Wuest played hundreds of gigs in and around Syracuse and NYC, Garulli wrote what would later become some of The Heavy Pets’ most recognized early hits. Post graduation, Lloyd headed to Florida to reconnect with Dupell who was living in Fort Lauderdale. Garulli followed, and The Heavy Pets were officially formed. Wuest arrived soon after, and drummer Jamie Newitt joined the group just before Langerado’08, ahead of a heavy summer touring schedule. Then, Dupell’s sudden departure from the band in late 2008 created moonlighting opportunities for famed bassists Mark White of the Spin Doctors and Felix Pastorious, Jaco’s son. Mid 2009, the band permanently filled Dupell’s vacancy with bassist Justin Carney from Los Angeles adding to the band’s roster of talent. The Heavy Pets are: Jeff Lloyd: Lead Guitar, Vocals Mike Garulli: Lead Guitar, Vocals Jim Wuest: Keyboard, Vocals Jamie Newitt: Drums Justin Carney: Bass, Vocals Read more on Last.fm. User-contributed text is available under the Creative Commons By-SA License; additional terms may apply.