Friends of Dean Martinez is an instrumental rock band featuring members of Giant Sand, Calexico, and Naked Prey. Beautiful ambient rock a la Unwed Sailor.
In a nutshell, FoDM is a combination of bits of electronic static intertwined with surf guitar inspired leads, reminiscent of pre "dark side" Pink Floyd, all droning to the beat of Nick Mason-esque drums, stretched over 30 minute intervals. The band was originally formed in Tucson, Arizona as an experimental side project by various members of Giant Sand, Calexico and Naked Prey. Originally called "The Friends of Dean Martin," they were forced to change their name after Dean Martin refused to give his blessing. It worked out for the best, as "Martinez" provided a south-western spin to their retro lounge sound, with their debut album, "The Shadow of Your Smile," released with Sub Pop in 1995.
The band has evolved several times since then. They've gone through a variety of line-ups, moved to Los Angeles, and have now settled in Austin, Texas. Currently the trio includes Bill Elm on steel guitar and organ, Mike Semple on guitar, and Andrew Gerfers on drums. Originally a guitar player, Elm first started experimenting on the steel guitar with the formation of "Friends". Pushing beyond the instrument's country twang traditions, he pioneered a distinctive new sound for the pedal steel guitar. By using an e-bow it acts more like a voice rather than merely a background instrument.
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