Minneapolis/St. Paul band The Metro All Stars (later changing their name to The Metros) were featured on Star Search, winning once before losing the following week. A Night At The Prom's side one was recorded Live at The Prom Center. Side Two was recorded at Cookhouse Studios in Minneapolis.Released on Waterhouse Records and produced by Paul J. Moe.
I was turned on to them when they were called The Metros, After The Passion's Gone from 1986's self-titled disc is a classic New Wave cut. This record has garnered the most positive response with the people I shared it with. Produced by Tommy West and Warren Peterson it was recorded in Tennessee and released on MTM Records, distributed by Capitol Records.
Metro All Stars:
Andy Bailey - Keyboards/Vocals
Dusty Cox - Saxophone/ Keyboards
Andy Gauthier - Drums
Jody Hanks - Vocals
Danny Mangold - Guitar
Larry Stock - Bass/Vocal
The Metros:
Jody Hanks - Lead Vocals
Andy Bailey - Keyboards, Vocals
Dusty Cox - Saxophones, Keyboards
Danny Mangold - Electric And Acoustic Guitars
Larry Stock - Bass, Vocals
Andy Gauthier - Drums
Also Performing:
Keyboards: Shane Keister & Tommy West
Drums & Percussion - Larrie Londin
Background Vocals - Nick Distefano, Thom Flora & Tommy West
Background Vocals - "Up the Ladder To The Roof"- The Voltage Brothers
Guest Vocalist "Promises" - Pat Lawless
Fairlight Programming - Shane Keister
Synclavier Programming - Steve Schaffer
Downloads all available on main page : http://azlocal.blogspot.com/
All new 2008 Recordings courtesy of Danny Mangold
Ten Miles Out Of Texas 10:1
Tonight
John The revelator 10:16
All New 2008 Recordings
New Metro All Stars Recording Courtesy Of Danny Mangold
"This came from a really bad board tape that I remastered with a kinda funny intro. It's pretty cool...I think..." - Danny
Download Metro All Stars new recording
105 comments:
Great band.I used to follow these guys every where.I feel the records never really captured their Ramones meets Philly soul style.Live they were unmatched.I saw them open for The Romantics and they blew them off the stage.
Where are these guys? I loved them.They were a lil bit soul and a lil bit Zeppelin and a lil bit jazzy,they were cool. One night I saw their singer Jody and Grant Hart (Husker Du)in downtown St. Paul hangin out and they were funny as hell very un rock starish.Yea they were cool.
The Metro`s never got the respect that they earned.They got lost in the Prince, Replacements, Husker Du,storm.They were heads and shoulders above most of the local scene in the 80`s.Their singer should have never quit. They were never the same afterwards either was he.The funniest group of people I ever met.
The drummmer Andy Gauthier currently live in Portland Oregon and is a totally kick ass drummer has played for Jon Koonce and the Gas Hogs for years ,now is the Drummer for Tommy tutone great guy
Danny Mangold went on to become "the" guitar guy for the Seattle scene in the early nineties. He had a Guitar Shop in Everett, WA. He sold a bunch of guitars to Kurt Cobain and became good freinds with Dave Grohl...
He also went on to be the
Foo Fighters Guitar Tech when they toured.
Danny was never a guitar tech for the Foo Fighters. He ran a guitar shop in Everett that closed down a few years back.
I love these guys. I was in a band that opened up for them a couple of times when they came through North Dakota. I remember being totally blown away by Andy the drummer when I first saw them. Being a pretty young drummer myself at the time, he made me want to quit playing the drums. I used to have both of these albums, but the first one disappeared a long time ago. Thank you, thank you, thank you for posting these.
whose danny playing music with now?
Yes, Jody is still around. I run in to him from time to time at the Minnesota Music Cafe in St. Paul. Unfortunately, Andy Bailey died of a heart attack a couple of years ago. We lost a great friend and musician who was very active musically right up to his untimely death.
I thought the reason the The Metro All Stars broke up is because of Jody Hanks, I guess I am shocked that he is still around because of what he did.
I did hear of Andy Bailey's passing. The world of music lost one hell of a musician, I hope he is still playing "Up There". I think his wife's name was Janette? and they lived in downtown St Paul the last I heard (which was over 20 years ago though)
Does Danny ever come to the Twin Cities? If you goggle him, you can get a ton of information about what has happened to him since he left Minnesota.
Nice to see Andy Gauthier is still drummming. He was a great drummer. I wonder what ever happened to the original drummer - Mike and his wife Marah (I think that was her name?)
Last information on Larry Stock was that he was moving to Dallas Texas. Does anyone have current information on him? He was a GREAT bass player and really knew how to pluck the hell of that bass! I wonder what he is up to and if he is still active in the music world?
Dusty Cox has to be out there somewhere playing. He was tooo good of a sax player and a dedicated musician to not be out there in this music business.
It was my understanding that Andy Bailey and Danny owned the rights to the name of The Metro All Stars, but there is another band out there with this name. Does anyone know this was due to Andy's passing and that is how this band can use this name?
If anyone has information on the band, please write in.
Maybe if m.m. sees Jody again he can tell him about this site and he can share what he knows.
It's nice to see that other's remember this great band also. I secretly had dreams that they might someday have a reunion, but that is no longer possible with Andy's passing and NO one could ever replace him.
Jody didn`t break up this band, bad management did.Why are you shocked that he is still round? He still kicks ass. I heard that Danny and him are writing new music.Jody got a bad rap from a lot of people who think they know what happened. I know Jody and he is a real person who loved these guys in his band.
Jody still plays a lot around the twin cities area, and he's amazing, still got the pipes and very entertaining. Always puts on a good show. I know him too, he's a good guy with a big heart.
the hamster gentlemen stole my girl
Dusty Cox is still playing, and teaching saxophone & jazz at a University in Adelaide, Australia.
If you do a search for him, there are many items posted on the web. He went on to play in many parts of the United States including New Orleans, Florida, Colorado, Oregon, Arizona, and more, and also taught saxophone & jazz in South Africa!
Nice to see interest in this band! I've heard directly from the guys in the band, that yes indeed, Jody left the band to pursue a solo career, and that is exactly what broke up the band. Nothing happened for him after that, and it seems he realized what he had left behind many years later.
What the fuck do any of you people know. I have known these guys personally for years and I don`t even know what happened. Sounds like this asshole who said Jody has done "nothing" has a hidden agenda.Look, every band has it`s shelf life ok? These guy`s in their early shows had an incredible ferocity that had to be seen to be believed. So enjoy what it was. I will give you my view from what I have heard. The Metro`s managers were the ones who told Hanks to pursue a solo career then totally dropped the ball. They then told him to rejoin but the damage was done. They have all gone on to do a lot of things. Anyway they were cool.
I cannot tell you how excited I was to hear this music after 20 years?! I always wondered what happened to this band ... I haven't lived in St Paul for years, but could someone remind me of the places they used to play in south Minneapolis -- there was also a place off 94 between St Paul and Minneapolis where my boyfriend and I used to go to hear them play. Love the memories!!
These guys had to be seen live to really understand how great they were! There albums never captured the energy and drive of their live shows. I used to see them play in Minneapolis, Moorhead, Fargo, Crookston, and Grand Forks and always to packed standing room only cheering crowds. (Best show was the old Gaslight Lounge in Fargo,ND) You're absolutely correct...these guys were all very cool and would take time to talk with the fans and even attended a party or two after the show. They would talk music with your for hours...When they were at the top of their craft...no one in the upper midwest could touch them. Not the NEWZ, The Phones, Flamin Oh's, or The Michael James Band. You know how most bands start a set by strumming their guitars or banging a snare or tapping on the keyboards before actually breaking into song? NOT the Metro All-Stars...they hit the stage and INSTANTLY break into their first song EVERY time...every set...very tight ultra-professional!
Thought I would address a number of questions, comments, and issues in these posts.
1) Anonymous from 2/23: I will pass this site info on to Jody the next time I run into him. If that doesn’t happen soon, I will get it to him through Billy Larson, co-owner of the Minnesota Music Cafe (MMC) in St. Paul. I hope that he does chose to join the forum and help fill in the blanks. BTW, Andy Bailey’s wife is named Jeanine though she was usually called J.J. For any one who might be interested there is a nice little tribute to Andy at: http://www.midwesttribute.com/legends.htm .
2) Jerry Steckling: I believe that we knew each other years ago. I might be wrong but it may have been when I played piano/keyboards for the Whitesidewalls Rock ‘n’ Roll Review. Does the stage-name Skeeter ring a bell? BTW, I agree with your comment about how the Metros got lost in a storm of talents that all happened to break around the same time. Ironically, it does speak volumes about how rich the Twin Cities music scene was at that time.
3) Anonymous from 3/29: The place off of I-94 between St. Paul and Minneapolis that you thinking of might have been the Prom. It was located on University Avenue in St. Paul just off of the freeway near Minneapolis, and was a common venue for “A” List bands to work at for many years. That is were the Metro All Stars recorded the Live Side 1 of their 1st LP, “Night At The Prom” (Side 2 was done in the studio). It was a great place to do a show, and I was fortunate enough to work there quite a bit.
I am hoping someone can indulge me here; I remember the Metros used to sing a song about "Money" which was I believe also in the title --- I see that it's not on either of the 2 albums posted here --- does someone remember some of the lyrics to this song? I always remember that it was one of my favorites ...
These guys started out as the Uglies before they became The Metro All Stars and there was a guitar player named Gene Wilhemi who was let go when Jody came on board because he was "access baggage". Does any one know what happened to Gene and what he is up to now?
To Anonymous on April 1...
I have old live taped gigs of The Metro All Stars on cassette somewhere. I think I have "For The Love Of Money" on one of these tapes. Ill try to find it and write in the words in here. I know it will bring back memories relistening to this band and I can relive my youth while Im at it! : )
I feel honored to have Andy Bailey's version of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" also on one of these tapes. To this day that is still the best version I have ever heard of that song...even over Sam Harris's version.
I was shocked to say the least when I saw that Andy passed away. He was truly a gifted individual. He did put out a CD called "Begin Again Lounge" that you can get on Amazon.com that showcases his talent after The Metro All Stars broke up. He ran into a friend of mine a few years back and he said him and his wife owned a tattoo parlor also...does anyone have any info on that?
It sure is good reading of people that remember this great band and how they touched us in their own way.
To Anonymous on April 2nd, Andy and J.J.'s tattoo parlor is B-Cool Tattoo & Piercing Inc. It is located on the East Side of St. Paul and is still listed in the Sept. 2007 phone directory.
Didnt this band have a video out? If so, Does anyone know where I can get a copy? Ill pay if someone does.
Just found this page..very cool. I played in the "Mets" since the inception. It was usually 4 sets a night...5 nights a week and loved every second of it. Andy Bailey was the heart and soul of the band and not a day goes by without me thinking of him. Andy Gauhier, Jody Hanks and I are still extremely close and still record long distance together. Andy's drumming has been better and Jody's voice is still a marvel and my oldest friend in the world. He, Andy and I talk fairly regularly, mostly about Bush administration and "Rock of Love" on VH-1. You know, the important stuff. But mostly we talk about the amazing friends and fans we were blessed to meet. Dusty Cox is in Australia and doing great. Larry Stock is in Texas and I'm positive he still has the best hair.
I still play quite a lot, live in Seattle and somehow can't get playing at the Cabooze out of my head.
danny mangold
Hey Danny Boy!!
It's Dusty here, hello one & all! An old friend of mine told me of this sight, and I couldn't resist a response after seeing Dan's post. Great to see your post Dan, my friend George over here lost your email address, wants to send you some things as a thanks for the help with the guitar purchase, he's very grateful to you.
It's terrific that everyone on this sight seems enthused about the band, and, none of us care why, how, the whole thing ended, no matter, our lives go on, and most of us are still in touch because we valued the experience so much. I had an absolute ball, for all of the time I was in the band, I couldn't wait to get in the van, head out of town for a few weeks, play hard, and laugh myself stupid at all the antics!
Yup, Andy Bailey was the funniest man alive, and I miss him terribly, just as I know all the guys do. I had some fairly recent contact with 'Rich Tones', we played some gigs together when I ended up back in Mlps in 2000-'03, and I sat in when Andy was in the Cranstons while I was going to grad school in Colorado. Such a character, I get the giggles just thinking about the man.
I got to hang with Jody at that time as well, and we had a wonderful time recounting old tales, and laughing about it, us, like mad, he's doing very well.
Andy G. and I are in touch, we were very close for many years. We ended up in Florida together after the Mets, he then went on to Portland, and I ended up there for a year hanging out with him at that time. Andy is a very special human being, funny, brilliant, and a helluva drummer.
Dan came to my first wedding in Seattle (as did Andy G., my best man!), so good to see him. Dan is the hippest cat on earth, you rock Dan! Our friendships have lasted a lot longer than that marriage, thank goodness! Larry is the only one with whom I've not spoken in all these years, I do hope he's enjoying life (as he should).
Yeah, I live in Australia, I've been here for many years, coming & going, and now I'm going to stay, it's 'home'. Best to all, and, thanks for the kind words & interest in this kooky collective slice of our lives.
best wishes, Dusty
I love my fellow Metro`s. We had an outrageous amount of fun and anybody who was near the Mets
cannot deny the pure joy we all felt. There was nothing like being on the inside of this colorful hurricane. We kept our sanity by being insane. We took huge chunks out of life`s bounty. We had the best times always.
Andy Bailey, what can I see about the worlds prettiest, funniest, madly talented fireball? Actually about 3 books worth. When I think of Andy I laugh then I cry. We all miss him.
Danny Mangold, I have known Danny since I was a sophomore in high school and I still can`t get him on the phone fast enough. We still talk all the time. I love him.
Andy Gauthier, I can`t talk to Andy because my head hurts from laughing so hard when we do. Killer drummer and one of the smartest dudes I know.I love him too.
Dusty Cox, Seriously talented saxophone player...My god he can play. I miss him and wish he would come to the states more.
Larry Stock, He stole my chick...I haven`t talked to him in awhile I hope he is doing good. Great guy incredible voice.
I want to thank you all for your words and your interest in The Metro All Stars...Danny Andy and I have been doing some recording so who knows we could have a nice bookend for all this.Peace,
Jody Hanks
Dusty!
I still have a few cassetes for posterity's sake. Among them are a mix tape of the Brecker Brothers that a friend gave me many years ago and of course, A Night At The Prom.
See if you recognize a familiar face at www.river929.com. Just click on DJs.
Last time you and I talked was on the phone. I was in Dallas and you were in Durban, hanging with Brubek. A friend of mine was heading to Johannesburg, for a gig and I was trying to get you two together.
Last week I had a caller mention he used to go out and see the Metros in MPLS before moving to the North East. I got all nostalgic and and wound up on this sight, and homage to all of our glorious pasts! Now, within just a few weeks your former band mates, old friends and fans are checking in with updates from all over.
The timing has to be some form of harmonic convergance or a really amusing stage of mid life!
I even caught up with one of my best gal pals from college.
Cheers!
Oh My God, am I a bonehead, spellcheck, I need a proofreader. Of all the typos to make a mistake on, I hit the motherlode. On my previous blog I accidently backspaced the word "never" in the sentance " Andy's drumming has never been better" . Which is true. Gauthier is the alpha and the omega of rock drumming. Equal parts John Bonham, Cylde Subblefield (James Brown)and Dino Dannelli (the Young Rascals). My apologies abound. Andy G. is one of my closest friends. Hey Andy, I owe you lunch at "Art Songs Wings that Sing" on 38th and Nicollet..danny
Danny,I remember the first time i saw Andy drum. It was at the Playmor Club on the "strip" in Mandan North Dakota.He was in a band clled "Phil and the Blanks" and I was bowled over.The were kind of a punk band,way cool and the locals didn`t know what to make of these fellers. Now the club caters to that new country type of music which I think is just rap and hip hop backlash. This is fun....keep writing and tell Andy about this blog...Jody Hanks ...oh I just got a cd of the Uglies at the Libation Station it`s like listening to the birth of The Metro`s....Bailey is in fine form.
I'm amazed by the response and apprecaite all the band members commenting! Thanks guys!
Check out my Phil N The Blanks post too:
http://azlocal.blogspot.com/2008/01/phil-n-blanks-head-screwed-on-1983.html
WOW! I ran into an old "AllStar" and she told me of this site and I just had to write in.
This brings back so many memories for me. I remember working in the Highland Park area and a co-worker named Julie would always tell me I have to see this group called "The Uglies" (Boy did I give her shit by seeing a group by this name). I never did see "The Uglies" and I have always regretted that decision. Then she stopped talking about "The Uglies" and started talking about "The Metro All Stars" and how they opened playing "Somewhere Over The Rainbow". This was just more amunition to tease here. A rock version of this song?? I mean come on now. It was a disgrace to Judy Garland to turn this into rock! After 1 week of her going on and on I had to see this group at Libation Station (which turned out to be my 2nd home at that time)
I was totally blown away by Andy Bailey's version. It WAS better than Judy Garland! I was addicted like she was and saw this group through until there very last performence.
In reading these blogs it sounds like some people were like me, knowing this band from the beginning.
I remember Mikey and Gene, all the stories of breakups and who stole who's girlfriends and wife's. Mikey was a cool dude, just not an excellant drummer, a good one...just not excellant and Gene was a gentle soul and I followed him as best I could when he was playing here.
I also remember the sound men, the 2 Kevins and the one I cant remember...but he always wore that drum logo t-shirt. They also taped this group live for me on a couple occasions in which I lost over the years. I'll have to check with Carie if she still has them.
I was lucky enough in the beginning to go out-of-town with them. These guys rocked and we had such fun. UGH! When I think of the money I spent!...but I never regret one dime.
Sometime last year I heard that Andy Bailey died. I was blown away. He had such life in him. I worked in downtown St Paul where he was living at the time and had several lunches with him. He even gave up watching "As The World Turns" to do this too! I mean you had to love this man! He was so talented and so creative, the world lost one hell of a musician the day God called on him.
But this lead me to contact Danny. We were in touch and I cant find his current email addy. Write if you get the chance! Danny also was a hell of a songwriter (And still is BTW). He was the lead singer of the "Metro All Stars" until Jody came along. Danny was a good singer, but Jody really added to the band. Jody is very chasimatic and sings from his soul.
Danny was also smart! Sometimes I would have to write down what he said and look it up in the dictionary! He kept me intelligent to say this least! : )
Larry was the ladies man. Boy! Did he like playing to the ladies! But he also had the looks and charms to pull it off. God! Could he play that bass tho! I went to his and Kevin's place and sometimes you would find a member of "The Phones" there crashing. (They were also a cool bunch of guys.) I also went another one of his places were he had bunnys! I still find it funny to this day that he had bunbuns...I dont know why. I was surprised when said he was moving to Texas, but if my memory serves me right, I think he had a brother who lived there. He had the coolest voice and ohhhhh so sexy. In a way it was like the packaged he presented. But he really wasnt like what he presented on stage. I find it odd that he has not been in contact with any of the old members, but maybe he just shelved away those memories and got out of the business of music. (Which is hard to believe because he was so talented.)
I will never forget the night I called Andy G "Lil Andy"! Whoa boy!That was a mistake. I wanted a nickname for him because of the 2 Andys' in the band and since Andy Bailey was the 1st one, I figured Andy G should have a nickname. Let's just say from the night on he has been Andy G! I think that is why I never became tight with him like I did the others. I mean I liked him, and he was an excellant drummer...And he was funny. And there is the fact that Mikey and his wife had become close to me. But, you really could tell the difference from his style and Mikey's. Andy G was much more powerful of a drummer.
When Dusty joined the band I KNEW they were going places. He was that added touch to get them to the place they really belonged...on the airwaves. Who ever wrote that they knew Dusty would be going places, I totally agree with. It's nice to see that Dusty stayed on playing his sax. That man was talented and smart! (It was nice to see you write in Dusty! And I knew you would go far...in the business and not all the way to Aussie land tho!) I also played the sax at one time and just marveled how you played over mine! But I did get a lot of dates when I told men I played "Sax". : )
I remember Julie's sister gushing how Ragg's got a new singer and how he could sing and was so sexy.
I immediately was at Libation Station the next night! (I know... I was shallow back then) Here was this kid (Jody), my age singing with this chic (Margaret Cox) and this singer blew me away! How could you not fall in love with that image he presented? Later on I got to know him a little bit. He was almost to perfect for me to talk to! I still remember the days of talking make up with Margaret in the ladies bathroom at LS. She was talented, but it was really Jody who made that band. (and you cant forget "Buffalo!")
Then Jody joined the "Metro All Stars" and things really picked up in populatity for this band. I got to know Jody better and he is like this secretive person who wants you to know him, but yet likes to keep a mysteriousness about him.
Was I pissed when Jody left the band high and dry? HELL YA! I dont want to say Jody carried that band, but without him, it just didnt work. I mean they were #1 on the airwaves in Philly and they finally got a label and he quits!
I realized later that it was me who I was mad at. "The Metro's" had become my life. I had jobs so I could live, but avoided a career. I wanted them to play at my wedding (which never happened, but finally will next June), I also lost bragging rights. I wanted to tell the world when "The Metro's" got famous that I knew them wayyyyyyy back when. Jody had his reasons for quitting and if he didnt quit, would the rest of them be where they are today?
I can tell you I forgave Jody (and no...it's not because I had a crush on him, that ended some time ago : ) )and even saw him a couple of times at gigs. I have written to him a couple of times. It's nice to see that he is still out there. Ill have to find time to see him perform again soon.
With all these bands having reunions I too secretly hoped that one of them could be Metro. With Andy Bailey's passing, it will never happen now. Im stuck with my memories and what great memories they were.
THANK YOU PJS for putting these wonderful albums on your site! (Sorry Jody, but I think Im going to dl these songs and not get them from you)
PS Maybe next time you're in town Danny, we could all get together and have some laughs...but make it some what soon...I leave for the NYC area next June.
-Heather
It would be great to hear from any of the other band members and other interested folks that may have a comment (albeit brief) to share:-).
It's great to hear the music again, so sad that CDs weren't around then as I have no turntable to play the albums on anymore, so am very grateful for the chance to download this music.
Thanks guys for the memories and musical contribution this band made, clearly you've all touched a lot of people and continue to do so. Isn't nice to know that the things you did 20 years had such an impact on so many people...(not just those of us in Fargo who drove Pintos and Bobcats)!
Peace and Joy!
Skutch,
I live in Federal Way, but will be leaving in the not too distant future. I'd love to get together and talk over old times before I go. Please email me at jwumkes@comcast.net
Wump
Greatings to the Metros. I used to book the band at Moorhead State U. (MN) in the early 80's and of course went to every gig they ever did at the Zodiac (the Zoo) in Moorhead. I still remember their amazing version of "Over the Rainbow." And special hello to Danny with very fond memories of our many conversations about getting into the business. Mark G.
As a Libation Station regular, I am proud to be one of the locals who vigoriouly lobbied the bar owners to to bring The Uglies back for a second time. Their first appearance was a Monday night/new up and coming band kind of a thing. The Libation Station gave them a foothold into the Twin Cities music scene and the rest is history.
I've spent many hours between sets with them in some of the finest back stage accomodations, alley and parking lots the Twin Cities has to offer. I hosted several after hours parties for them in Highland Park and south mpls. Funny we never got a neighborhood complaint considering they started at 2am, had about 100 people and we lived next door to a cop. Some things were meant to be, I guess.
As The Uglies, All-Stars and Metros they were all great and what fantastic musicians and writers.
Dan, Larry, Dusty, Andy G., Jody (Gene, Michael and James, too) thanks for letting hang with you guys and thanks for the memories. Glad to hear you're all doing well and still out there. God Bless Andy B. I will shed a few tears listening to the songs again.
Tuni
So great to find this spot on the web.
Michael D. Walker here...I used to hang out with the guys a bunch and roadie for them or whatever I could do to hang with them when they played down in Rochester. So, I was always at their Dooley's gigs and later their gigs at Pfaff's and of course the outdoor Sun Rock festivals at the Rochester Fairgrounds.
After I started working in radio, I got them an interview on KWWK FM in Rochester and we played all their demos on the air, including their fantastic cover of the Jackson Five's "I Want You Back" (anybody have a copy of the video the guys did for that? I saw it aired on one of the Minneapolis stations once).
Did you know the Metros once had Tiny Tim as their lead vocalist for part of a set? Hard to believe but true!
I was doing radio promotions for Tiny Tim and he wanted to see a live band, so I got his management and him to go to Dooley's with me.
I think Danny invited him up to do a few songs. I recall it being a bizarre evening and I take all the blame for that but what the hell...
one for the record books, right?
I kept in touch with Danny and Larry for a few years after the guys parted ways but then lost touch with them.
I still have tapes of 2-3 Dooley's gigs, the radio interview and the demos. Plus, I still have the two albums. Also have some photos from a Dooley's gig.
Nowadays I'm in Vegas working for Cirque du Soleil after working with several studios over the years.
So, not only do I still have a tremendous love of their music but I dearly love those guys.
They always were great to me and gave me my first shot at doing roadie and sound work back when I was just a punk 16 year old kid who loved music.
One name I haven't seen mentioned is Gene Wilhelm, their guitarist who left sometime shortly after Dusty came on board.
If any of the guys wish to get in touch with me...drop me a note at
walkm AT aol DOT com. I'd love to hear from you. If you ever get out to Vegas, definitely look me up!
Michael D. Walker
One hell of a band. I used to cashier at the Daytons Ramp in the 80's, and I would see Jody drive out. Even though he was a "bigshot", he was always very nice, and encouraged me to pursue music. I remember when I saw the video (I think it was a song alled "Here's my Heart".) I have a Stereo 101 Album somewhere that I won at Duffy's that has a Mtro song on it
I just read on Jody's website that he is getting together with Andy Gauthier and Danny Mangold in Seattle to lay down some tracks
for a project called "Before we were so rudely interrupted."
I know it wont be the same with out the rest of the band (Especially Andy Bailey), but I heard a sample of one of their collaboration and it was great! It still had "The Metros" sound to it.
If they make enough tracks for an album...I will be 1st in line to buy it!
Hey Dusty...Ever think of making a trip from Aussyland to Seattle? : ) Your added touch would be this even more awsume!
And here I thought it was only a dream that they would reunite!
Dreams do come true.
-Heather
Hello everyone,Thanks so much for all the kind words. I spent a week in Seattle with Danny recording and it was off the hook. We went to Portland and had Andy Gauthier lay down the drum tacks. I couldn`t be any happier hanging around with my band mates recording and having the kind of laughs we used to share years ago. Danny Mangold is my hero...he makes me want to be a better singer and more importantly a better person. He is still one of the best songwriters in the world. We want to put a website together where everyone can share their memories and download all this new music that we keep pumping out. We aren`t looking for a record deal, we are just doing what comes natural...rocking out and giving the finger to the bushtards. So hang on and we will let you know when we get our website together. In the meantime i want to revel in the fact I kicked Sean Hannity in the nuts when the little fuck was in town for lipping off to me. O`reily is next....lol
Hey all,
I would like to add - these guys were (and are) the best performing mucisians I have ever had the pleasure of running sound for. There were no big secrets to making them sound the way they did - their big sound was always spot on, regardles of what stage they were performing on.
My some of my fondest memories were when the band would abandon the setlist and just go crazy. Hey does anybody remember that community college that we did in Illinois, when Andy Bailey rolled over a grand piano from the side of the stage and just took over? Jody stuck his vocal mic in the piano and Andy went nuts.
It's great to see this site and can't wait to hear the tracks that you guys are working on.
Brian
Yep. Great band back in the day. We used to watch them at the Red Carpet in St. Cloud, MN. The guys and the girls really liked this band.
I loved the signature version of "over the rainbow". Someone needs to post a version of that on this site.
Keep up the good work guys.
Hi all,
Jody flew out for a week to stay with me here in Seattle in August and we had a blast!! Although Seattle is an amazing city with a lot to see, Jody and I really just spent every minute recording in my small studio...and yes... mighty, mighty Andy Bailey's spirit was indeed with us on every take guiding us. Talk about bossy!! The sessions were pretty productive. As usual Jody sang his ass off. Probably his best vocal work recorded and trust me...I've spent decades playing with that guy. But...the coup de grace'? We got tracks together and drove 3 hours south to Portland to stay with Andy Gauthier and his wife of like 6000 years Carol "She love him long time" Sackman. More recording in Andy's basement..(which is a totally sweet ass place to make a racket.) A few new tunes, a Dylan song and a new Daddy-o. Talk about blessings...to be able to laugh my ass off at Gauthier's kitchen table with 2/3rd's of the Mets (oh yeah, I'm sure Bailey was there as well) is something special. We all agreed that not a day goes by that we don't remember all the amazing and beautiful friends, fans and confidantes that filled our Metro world during those years. Hi to Dusty and Larry where ever the heck that guy is.
I'll mix up a few tunes. If anyone would like an mp3 copy..shoot me an email. dannymangold@gmail.com
Hi all,
Jody flew out for a week to stay with me here in Seattle in August and we had a blast!! Although Seattle is an amazing city with a lot to see, Jody and I really just spent every minute recording in my small studio...and yes... mighty, mighty Andy Bailey's spirit was indeed with us on every take guiding us. Talk about bossy!! The sessions were pretty productive. As usual Jody sang his ass off. Probably his best vocal work recorded and trust me...I've spent decades playing with that guy. But...the coup de grace'? We got tracks together and drove 3 hours south to Portland to stay with Andy Gauthier and his wife of like 6000 years Carol "She love him long time" Sackman. More recording in Andy's basement..(which is a totally sweet ass place to make a racket.) A few new tunes, a Dylan song and a new Daddy-o. Talk about blessings...to be able to laugh my ass off at Gauthier's kitchen table with 2/3rd's of the Mets (oh yeah, I'm sure Bailey was there as well) is something special. We all agreed that not a day goes by that we don't remember all the amazing and beautiful friends, fans and confidantes that filled our Metro world during those years. Hi to Dusty and Larry where ever the heck that guy is.
I'll mix up a few tunes. If anyone would like an mp3 copy..shoot me an email. dannymangold@gmail.com
Hi all,
Jody flew out for a week to stay with me here in Seattle in August and we had a blast!! Although Seattle is an amazing city with a lot to see, Jody and I really just spent every minute recording in my small studio...and yes... mighty, mighty Andy Bailey's spirit was indeed with us on every take guiding us. Talk about bossy!! The sessions were pretty productive. As usual Jody sang his ass off. Probably his best vocal work recorded and trust me...I've spent decades playing with that guy. But...the coup de grace'? We got tracks together and drove 3 hours south to Portland to stay with Andy Gauthier and his wife of like 6000 years
Carol "She love him long time" Sackman. More recording in Andy's basement..(which is a totally sweet ass place to make a racket.) A few new tunes, a Dylan song and a new Daddy-o. Talk about blessings...to be able to laugh my ass off at Gauthier's kitchen table with 2/3rd's of the Mets (oh yeah, I'm sure Bailey was there as well) is something special. We all agreed that not a day goes by that we don't remember all the amazing and beautiful friends, fans and confidantes that filled our Metro world during those years. Hi to Dusty and Larry where ever the heck that guy is.
I'll mix up a few tunes. If anyone would like an mp3 copy..shoot me an email. dannymangold@gmail.com
Thanks to Danny, I have posted the new recordings here for download! Enjoy!!
Hello all, I found this site when browsing the web for information on my step-dad Andy Bailey. It's very cool to see everyone talking so highly of him :). I have a question to ask: how do I get a copy of Andy's version of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?? I have never heard it and although it is my mother's favorite song, he never told us that a recording of it even existed! I am sure that she would absolutely love to hear it. By the way, J.J was his ex-wife, his widow is my mother Jeanine Bailey - never has gone by the name of J.J. She does still own the tattoo/piercing shop which is located on the east side of St. Paul. So again, if anyone has any information on where I could locate Andy's version of Somewhere Over The Rainbow" please please please e-mail me at sbailey1144@yahoo.com!!!!
Hi from Florida ! I recently emailed the singer and the guitar player, Jody and Danny from their address on this web page and they emailed me back along with a new recording done out in Seattle. There were two songs and I couldnt be happier. We always thought they should have been on the radio more than anyone else. They all were so nice too.
I was just reliving old memories with my college roommates from the 80's and got talking about the Metros. We loved seeing these guys live. Caught them anytime they played at the Red Carpet in St. Cloud, and numerous other venues. Our favorite however was the Cabooze. My roommate Xan worked the tickets there and some of you that frequented the place may remember a big black bouncer named Steve. Great guy, also drove the Metro Bus. Would love to say hey to both of them if I could locate them, but I lost track of them when I moved away from MN.
With the whole "Guitar Hero" craze around I was online listening to some old classics, including some Motown like the "I Heard it through the Grapevine" like the Mets would sometimes play, and ended up seeing a really old news clip that was running on youtube about the release of the "Night at the Prom" then ran across this site.
I tried downloading the music from this site and I did get the new 2008 stuff and the Night at the Prom album, but I keep getting nothing when I try to download the Metros album. Was wondering if anyone else had trouble or if the host could take a look and see if there is a problem with that particular download. Thanks, I will check back.
I do have the old vinyl somewhere, but not sure where it is at this point. I finally got a USB/turntable so I can download all the music from my old vinyls; now all I have to do is locate them.
By the way, whatever took Dusty to Australia? Was he from there originally?
I renewed the link for The Metros, enjoy!
www.youtube.com/Gerryfranc this is the link to see the video that the Metro`s made in Nahville Tn. Long live the memory of the much loved Andy Bailey.Also to anonymous who has a recording of "Somewhere over the rainbow" send the copy to Danny`s email and I am sure he will make it available to everyone. So great that the Mets fans still hold this band near and dear.
My former manager wrote a comment on here and it didn`t show ...did he do something wrong?
xxxx
Hey AZ;
I left a post that hasn't shown up.
It was rather long, so I don't know if that was a problem.
Please let me know.
My email is:
donnieland@aol.com
Thanks!
don powell
no, I have published all the comments I've received!
I've known about this site for a couple of years. It's taken me that long to attempt
to write down my memories of
The Metros. I'm sure I'll have other things to add at some point, when something happens to jog my memory.
I had the privilege of managing The Metros for a time. The love and respect I had for the band, and still have for each and every member of the band, is timeless and forever.
I've had the good fortune to work with a lot of big acts, and some of the best musicians in the world. The Metros could more than hold their own with all of them. This was not a collection of individual players. This was a unit. This was a family. No one person was more important than the rest, or 'less' important than the rest. In my 45 years in the music business, I have never known a tighter group of guys. They were tight personally and professionally.
Jody; a lot of other singers would kill to have that right amount of gravel in their voice as Jody has. An incredible front man.
Danny; a brilliant guitar player.
Andy Bailey; if you wanted it in the key of 'z', Andy would find it.
Andy Gauthier; other drummers would come to watch him.
Larry; a solid-ass bass player.
Dusty; ask him for a sax line
and you'd get, 'You want it like this???... or this???.. or this??? and he'd give you 20 variations of that one line.
And funny!!!! These guys were so fucking funny!!!!
Each member of the group had their own way of being funny, and each had their own 'role' in the craziness.
Danny and Jody were the
'in your face' comedians.
Andy Bailey... well, you never knew... he could be subtle, or completely out of his mind.
If someone else hadn't come up with the mosh pit, Andy Bailey would have.
Andy Gauthier, Dusty and Larry were the 'stealth comedians'... witty, a bit cynical, a bit dry... just the right zinger at the right time.
At the time I was working with The Metros, I was also working with a kid act that was long on cuteness and short on talent. There were a lot of long days with the kid act, and at night I would escape to a Metros gig, where there were 'real musicians' actually playing instruments...... guys I could have a conversation with in multi-syllables, an impossibility with the kid act. And without trying, they would have me doubled over with laughter, which at those moments, I needed.
Other people have written about how funny the guys were as well, but when it came to business, they were all business... intelligent, focused,and human. Everyone in the group had their own individual insecurities that they hid from their public extremely well.
But every once in a while, when it was just the seven of us talking, their insecurities came through, and I understood. It was something we never had a conversation about, but I think 'they' knew that 'I' knew what they were feeling. There was a great deal of trust between us, and I took their trust in me very seriously. Unfortunately, a time came when I reunited with a former business partner, and I think there were occasions when he took advantage of their insecurities.
Then came the record deal with MTM in Nashville.
My partner and I went to Nashville to meet the two guys at the label, one of whom was the producer.
I hate Nashville.
To me, it's Plywood Minnesota with tits. Not that there's anything wrong with that... but... what do they say in Texas??....
('another' place I can't stand!...
I have no idea what they're so damn 'proud' of down there..... sagebrush, mole hills and Bush.... who could ask for anything less)...
Where was I........ oh yes.... what do they say in Texas...'all hat and no cattle'....
Nashville is all tits and no ass! But, I digress.
We have dinner with MTM....
Mary Tyler Moore Records. Mary....Tyler....Moore....Records. Why the hell would Mary Tyler Moore have a record label????.... After meeting these two characters I found out.
They evidently talked her into an 'investment', and were bleeding her to death.
After two hours of hearing this producer's 'vision' for the Metros, we went back to our hotel, where I got uncharacteristically drunk. I hadn't been that drunk since I started out in the music business 20 years earlier. Back then I was a real bigshot, truly a legend in my own mind, smoking Camels, drinking shots of Canadian Club with Budweiser chasers.
So there was a record deal for
The Metros at Mary Tyler Moore Records, which for me was depressing enough, although I seem to remember my partner was rather enthusiastic about the whole thing. The producer was wrong, the song selection was wrong, they didn't have any money to promote the record...... but what do you do when the only deal out there is with Mary Tyler Moore Records??..
you take the friggin deal.
I wasn't around much longer after that. I didn't have the guts back then to tell the group how I really felt about Mary Tyler Moore Records. There was no point in bumming them out before they even made the record.
I wanted these guys to have success so badly, because I knew they would be graceful about success. Most musicians don't understand grace. Grace is being grateful, without being maudlin about it. Grace is how you treat your fans and the audience.
Grace is being above the jealousy and pettiness of the music business. Grace is having the confidence in knowing that you're an ass-kicking band, and the dignity to not mention it.
No other group that I've worked with had grace like The Metros.
One of the last times I was with the group, there was 'one guy' who was very quiet that night. He gave me a look that I remember to this day.. not an angry look, but... sad... 'hurt'..... like I had betrayed the band.....
like I had let them down......
and I felt like I 'had' let them down. Their job was to deliver the music; my job was to make them successful. They did their job.... I didn't do mine...but I honest to God didn't know what else to do... and neither did my partner. He 'thought' he did, but he didn't. I've had plenty of projects that were not successful, but none of them hurt my heart like falling short for The Metros.
The quiet guy that night...I didn't know what to say to him, and he didn't know what to say to me...... he just hung behind everyone else, and gave me that very sad look that I feel in my chest whenever I think about it. It was Andy Bailey, and I never saw him again.
What makes a band successful?? That kid act I was working with.. they hit it big internationally. On one hand, The Metros, a group of intelligent, funny, extremely talented guys; on the other, the kid act; marginally talented and dumb as rocks......the kids make it and The Metros don't. I will never, ever understand why.
Maybe for The Metros, all the planets were aligned, except fucking Pluto. I don't know.
Those of us who saw them perform,
loved them.
Those of us who knew them,
loved them more.
don powell
Don, thanks so much for taking the time to share such a unique and personal experience of the band. I'm really appreciative.
Great reminiscing about this great band here.
I found this because I was looking for more about "Phil and the Blanks". I knew Andy from when they played the Outrigger in Rochester. The link you have above is NOT the Phil and the Blanks that Anyd was in. There wasn't a girl and there were 4 of them I think, Phil (tall), Andy, a cute short guy whose name escapes me, and ? They went to Seattle after the Midwest, I think---
Chris
I want to thank Andy Bailey's son for setting the record straight about Andy's wife and ex. Obviously some of my memories have blurred together over time, and I apologize to everybody for mistakenly posting some inaccurate information. I guess its true that with age memory is the second thing to go.
Wow...yeah up late due to duties...
sick child and so on...
Excellent to find this, especially comments re: The Metros live. I became a musician in part I think from being a fan of music.
It was something to begin as a young child, then teen, literally locked in my room, listening to natioal groups which eventually I realized equaled learning songwriting, vocals, arrangments.
In the early 80's I was blessed to continue a well rounded formation. Met or was very aware of many Twin Cities' experienced original bands. It was crazy, heady, but very real, even being on the fringe of the fringe.
The Metros I stood in awe of, for all the reasons people have already named. The little cover band I was singing drummer with warmed up for the guys once upon a time. They were gracious and generous to me personally. Had fun being the littl-er kid hanging around...
It's edifying to know various members are still playing. As we're now in our 40's - 60's (reckon posters and the band to be in this bracket) I am more grateful than ever for the maturity which comes via simply continuing to play.
Seeing (hearing) things like this site instead of being solely nostalgic, rather for me point forawrd dead on to the clear way, to study - writing/recording/playing.
+Requiescat in pacem+ Andy Bailey
-Donna Dahl (Pip)
The Metros played heavy in my 80's music experience. When they came to Fargo/Moorhead it was an event. I have some great memories of shows and after parties.
I met Dusty Cox back stage at The Soo Pass Dude Ranch during an outdoor show. I was there to see some former members of the Uglies who were also on the bill, maybe still called the Uglies, soon to be The Michael James Band. The Metros were on stage and Dusty was getting ready to try out. I moved around front and was blown away. It might have been Springsteens "Jungleland" with Danny on vocals. All I know was I was hooked.
Their full on rock was spectacular along with the ballads. I would love to get a copy of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow", I hope someone finds a tape and gets it digitized. One tune that has stuck with me was a short protest tune about Ken Patera. Not only did it have an infectious hook it was pertinent and funny.
During their "final tour" they played Kirby's in Moorhead. I was there with a group of 20-30 diehard Metro fans. They played requests and their own favorites. Danny had them play "Give Me the Beat Boys" by Dobey Gray. I still remember that performance 20+ years later.
This is a great blog to fill some gaps. Thanks for the MP3's, my Metro albums are two of about 30 that made the cut when I painfully divested of 100's of albums.
Rock On!
Hello everyone, greetings from wondertown. Thought I would tell everyone on here to look for a new C.D. from Danny and myself. Looks like we woke the sleeping giant and got him back to work. I will have more info real soon. All I can tell you is, in my humble opinion, it`s GREAT. To be able to work with Danny again has been an incredible gift. Keep checking back and I will tell you the where and when. Thanks for all the good vibes.
OK, I've heard some new tracks w/ Andy G. (I think), Jody and Dan the Man.
Big, very very tasty, powerful, wonderful! Also heard Dusty on "I Fall In Love Too Easily", lush yet airy, beautiful.
-DD-
I hope I have the right blog about the Metro's and Danny Mangold. I've met him a few times in Portland playing an old Gibson hollowbody like BB Kings with a Bigsby and he mentioned living in Minnesota. What a guitar player and writer. I saw him again when he was playing in Heart in 2000 and the dude showed me the chords to a Steely Dan song after the show. Does anyone have any pictures of the Metros?
Hi all, Danny Mangold/Jody Hanks here. We just finished the CD and there is a link here to where you can here most of it. It's on Reverbnation...
www.reverbnation.com/dannymangoldjodyhanks
you might have to cut and paste the url address but all of us "Mets" would love to hear your feedback...or..just insane praise as we are incredibly needy and insecure..just kidding..except for the needy and insecure part. I think it sounds great. We couldn't hook up with Dusty or Larry but the mighty Andy Gauthier is on about 1/2. Thanks a ton..Danny
I was lucky enough to see Danny play with Jody in Vintage Raggs on May 31st at Bogart's in Apple Valley MN. It was strange seeing 2 Metro's together after all these years. But what a night it was!
It's like no time has passed, Danny played even better than I remember and Jody still has the chops.
My only complaint is they didnt do any Metro songs : (
If you go to ReverbNation.com, Danny and Jody have their music that they have been working on and you can listen to for free. (Andy G is even featured!...Gotta love that!)
I for one cant wait for this to come out in a CD so I dont need a computer to always have to listen to these fantastic songs!
Anonymous,
On April 2, 2008 You said you had cassettes of "Live" performances by the Metro's. Would you mind sharing these with the Metro Starved?
e-mail me at mobil1@fidmail.com
Thanks,
D
I was shocked to find out about Andy...such a bummer. I'm an old fan of the Metros. I've seen them at such fine places as Boyds on the River, Duffy's in Mpls, The Libation station (no Cover ever) and even the Apple River. Wow , just good times with the best Local band ever.
John
It must be the same guy.
Scroll up before these blog posts, there are photos of 2 Metro's albums. Click on the album picture to enlarge, you'll recognize Danny.
Donnie F, PS here's the url to the page w/ photos (followed by blog posts) http://azlocal.blogspot.com/2007/08/metro-all-stars-night-at-prom-1984_25.html
Hi all,
a saint named John Kieger in Mpls/St. Paul just sent me a great DVD of the Metros live from 1986 at an outdoor gig in St. Paul. Allthough the Mets always swung for the fence and tried to do A+ grade shows, I got a little nervous putting it in my DVD player for a million reasons..suppose the sound is bad...suppose we sucked that day...suppose the guitars are out of tune...suppose we looked lousy...well..5 seconds in and I wanted to give john a big Metro smooch. The DVD is just awesome..great sound..one camera that he uses well...the feel of the day is great...all good 80's and still pretty relevant. I stayed with Jody and Andy G in August..even those two lil' curmudgeons smiled from ear to ear.
I'll star putting songs on youtube as soon as I figger out how to edit on my mac. keep you posted..danny mangold
Hi! I was a huge Metros fan back in the day, going back to their gigs at the old Gaslight in Fargo (my uncle managed the Gaslight for a little while). I just found this site a few days ago. It was great to read the posts and get caught up. I was saddened to hear of Andy Bailey's passing - he was truly one of a kind.
I tried the link to download the albums, but it doesn't seem to work. I do have them on vinyl, but no way to play them anymore. If there is anyway to get them on mp3, that would be great!!
Hi Everybody,
It's finally here !! Oasis records did an incredible job with my new CD produced and co-written by my long time musical compadre, Danny Mangold. Judging from the response on Reverbnation.com, you guys love the samples...well, the actual CD came out better than expected...extremely high quality and still retaining the "live" vibe that Danny and I strive for. It made it to the Top 10 on their Rock charts in less than 2 weeks here in Seattle.
Before we start looking for distribution, we wanted to make it available to you guys first at a reduced price of $10.00 plus $2.50 for domestic shipping and handling.
Now...why are we are more in favor of an actual CD as opposed to a download at this point?? Good question.. It's because the CD looks great, made of recycled paper...even the plastic disc tray is made of recycled water bottles...and it just sounds better in a car CD player or home CD system rather than laptop speakers.
We aren't quite set up for online credit card orders but you can pay by check, money order or good old fashioned cash. You can order one (or a few if you want) by replying to this email or just print this out and send it to:
Joel Handtmann
8225 Northern Dr.
Minneapolis, MN
55427-2536
Thank you and hope to hear from you soon...
Jody Hanks& Danny Mangold
Hi Everybody,
It's finally here !! Oasis records did an incredible job with my new CD produced and co-written by my long time musical compadre, Danny Mangold. Judging from the response on Reverbnation.com, you guys love the samples...well, the actual CD came out better than expected...extremely high quality and still retaining the "live" vibe that Danny and I strive for. It made it to the Top 10 on their Rock charts in less than 2 weeks here in Seattle.
Before we start looking for distribution, we wanted to make it available to you guys first at a reduced price of $10.00 plus $2.50 for domestic shipping and handling.
Now...why are we are more in favor of an actual CD as opposed to a download at this point?? Good question.. It's because the CD looks great, made of recycled paper...even the plastic disc tray is made of recycled water bottles...and it just sounds better in a car CD player or home CD system rather than laptop speakers.
We aren't quite set up for online credit card orders but you can pay by check, money order or good old fashioned cash. You can order one (or a few if you want) by replying to this email or just print this out and send it to:
Joel Handtmann
8225 Northern Dr.
Minneapolis, MN
55427-2536
Thank you and hope to hear from you soon...
Jody Hanks & Danny Mangold
Hi Everybody,
It's finally here !! Oasis records did an incredible job with my new CD produced and co-written by my long time musical compadre, Danny Mangold. Judging from the response on Reverbnation.com, you guys love the samples...well, the actual CD came out better than expected...extremely high quality and still retaining the "live" vibe that Danny and I strive for. It made it to the Top 10 on their Rock charts in less than 2 weeks here in Seattle.
Before we start looking for distribution, we wanted to make it available to you guys first at a reduced price of $10.00 plus $2.50 for domestic shipping and handling.
Now...why are we are more in favor of an actual CD as opposed to a download at this point?? Good question.. It's because the CD looks great, made of recycled paper...even the plastic disc tray is made of recycled water bottles...and it just sounds better in a car CD player or home CD system rather than laptop speakers.
We aren't quite set up for online credit card orders but you can pay by check, money order or good old fashioned cash. You can order one (or a few if you want) by replying to this email or just print this out and send it to:
Joel Handtmann
8225 Northern Dr.
Minneapolis, MN
55427-2536
Thank you and hope to hear from you soon...
Jody Hanks & Danny Mangold
I`m sorry that I didn`t ask permission for the info on Danny and my CD. Would it be ok to post that info on here? Thanks for your consideration.
Hi everybody,
Thanks to Mark Luebker in Arizona, who used to get soundboard tapes from our soundman, recorded us back in 1981, I finally have some great live songs remastered...including "Downtown", Somewhere over the Rainbow" and "Papa Was A Rolling Stone" I would be glad to email you and mp3 when I'm finished. dannymangold@gmail.com
So why did all the discussion stop?
Although the original post goes back over a year, I feel a need to address Don Powell's(Metro's Manager)comments!
Apparently Don, you either found a conscience which I find hard to believe or your post is just the usual BS one can expect from you! Actions speak volumes about your character and the words you have expressed are totally out of character, especially for a used car salesman! You and your partner Paul care about two things! Yourselfs and money and you don't care who gets hurt in the process!Do the name's Badfinger or The Jet's ring any bells for you? The good people in this forum need to do some research on Don and Paul and find out what kind of weasels they really are! They might also be interested in who owned the trademark for the Metro's! Not that shocking really since the music biz is filled with guys just like them!
D
What about Dohn Fadden..!! Just props to my pops..!
D. Lewandowski
LOVE LOVE LOVE these guys. i worked at Fair Hills Resort near Detroit Lake, MN and would catch the Metros every time they came through. Awesome great time. Trying to remember - did they cover "Have Love, Will Travel"???? i have it in my head that they did....
The Metro's crew guys were pretty cool. Several of them went on to touring with national acts. I bet when they read this blog a lot of memories come back. I'm sure they have some good tapes of old shows!
To D in regards to our management. This page is all about the love. Please don`t denigrate Don Powell. He is a dear friend and any dust ups we had are forgiven. The man has been to hell and back with a medical condition. All is forgiven and I now treasure his friendship more than ever. Our road crew was awesome and should be mentioned. Jazz, Butch, Brian and Dohn were always great. Jazz is still one of the coolest persons I have ever known. Butch is all heart.
We are currently working on a new project named
"The Parlour Soul Sessions" keep checking back for more details. I also have to say at my CD release party, held at Brits Pub, was as Andy Gauthier said our best gig ever. There was an incredible vibe in that room. Laughter, tears and as I quote Andy again
"We don`t ever have to play another gig because nothing could compare to this one".
OH BUT WE WILL!!!!!!
Man, I hate to get dragged into a blog "pissing match" but in reference to Don Powell from someone named "D" a few posts up. Let me tell you, Don Powell has been a friend, a gentleman and a mentor to the Metros since we met him. Don Powell always made us feel special. Paul Moe, on the other hand, leapt at every opportunity to make us feel worthless.
danny mangold/seattle, wa.
Great site, just found it. brings back memories, LOVED the band. I was at the Red Carpet in St. Cloud in 81 listening to the band and met my wife. Does anyone know where I can get the two records or cd's
guy
Oakdale MN
I remember you guys just because I got to hang around the studio. My dad obviously still has the original LP's and whatever else came out of you guys. If I wasn't in MI I would stop by Brits at the drop of a hat to see you sing again..! Will be in town in December will you be doing any shows..?
D. Lewandowski son of D.F
I really hope someone reads this and can give me an idea where I can get copies of both of the bands records on CD
The digital files are available for download on the main blog page.
I just found out that Larry Stock passed away on May 24th, 2011.
The world has lost another terrific musician. RIP Larry. Hope you and Andy Bailey are making great music together again up there.
Hey this is Jason Stock, Larry Stocks son. Sad to say, but yes Larry passed away on Tuesday may 24th age 55. After the metros broke up, he became the tour manager of "the jets" and stayed with them for a while. He then married my mom, and moved to san antonio texas and got into the av business. He had me and my older brother trevor and later divorced my mom. He got really into golf, but when he lost his job twice he became very depressed. A great man who will be missed. my email is hodownhank@gmail.com if you want any pics of the metros cause i have tons!
Jason and Trevor,
Your Dad was the ultimate cool cat. I never saw him upset during all the years we spent together traveling the United States. As you can see here "The Metro's" have the greatest people who followed the band. The first time I saw Larry was at a college in Bismarck North Dakota. He was singing and playing bass with a band called "The Uglies". If I recall it was a Moody Blues song.
Also in the band was a keyboard player named Andy Bailey. They were fantastic. They eventually became "The Metro All Stars". I could tell you a million stories on how we not only kept each other in check but we kept each other in stitches. Just know your Dad was loved and respected. He was a fine, fine man. I will miss him always. You brothers take care of each other. I come from a family of 5 boys so I know what it means to have brothers. Take care Trevor and Jason. Long Live Larry and Andy.......
I saw the metros play and they were awesome they really have some great talent f
Mary Handtmann
Why can't I download the The Metro music?
I never heard of this band before but i think they're awesome!
Medisoft
I've followed Jody since he was with Ragg's. The Metros were the top act when Lamont broke up. I was at Lamont's farewell show at The Prom which the Metros opened. Wish I had won the lottery-one of the things I would have done would have been to get them HEARD by the RIGHT people. They deserved better.
I can't help but leave a comment. More for my sake, but I'm hoping someone like Danny or the older members might happen to remember. I really came upon this site while looking for information on Larry or Andy to see what had happened to the band that gave me so many great teenage memories. My days enjoying the Uglies really began at the Sunset Lounge in Moorhead, MN and then on to the Level 7 and the Spud Bar in East Grand Forks, ND. And somewhere along the way I made some great friends who would actually invite me up on stage to belt out a song with them every time I was in the audience. Gene and his wife invited me to every after party, and Andy and Michael and his wife Teri, were also great people. Larry really was the 'looker' and I sure had a crush. But they never treated me as a groupie but as a true friend. They were all just the greatest group of musicians, but more importantly, a great group of gentlemen - even when we were partying!! and I'm sure knowing them helped me land that job at Mothers Records which led to many other great musical opportunities. So I owe so much to the Uglies, Metros, Metro All Stars - whatever they go by- they were just the best! - Kelli Shumaker
JODY HANKS "SPIRIT OUTSIDE THE DOOR"
NOW AVAILABLE:
Joel Handtmann
8225 Northern Dr.
Minneapolis, MN
55427-2536
JODYHANKS.COM
JODY HANKS "SPIRIT OUTSIDE THE DOOR" NOW AVAILABLE: $15.00
Joel Handtmann
8225 Northern Dr.
Minneapolis, MN
55427-2536
jodyhanks.com
Kelli Shumaker !! great to see your post. email me at dannymangold@com and we will catch up
Just heard Jody sing last night with a group. Sounds the same as I remember him from 30 years ago! This was fun to read. ..a trip down memory lane. Pulled out my album and listened to it tonight. It was like no time gap ever existed. I remembered every lyric and riff as if I was young again! How amazing music is. Thanks!
From: Johnny Libation
I worked the Libation Station in "77 & '78. I first knew the band as "The Uglies" I believe they changed it to The Metro All Starts about the time Danny joined. I'm friends with Danny on Face Book, he posts photos and licks along with reports on all sorts of guitar and band stuff. He is still jamming hot licks. Too Bad about Andy, he was keys for the Lamont Cranston Band for a time... That's how good he was. i.e. Invasion of the Ball Blasters...! I was told second hand that he died on vacation where they did not have 911 or any medical help close by. Rest in peace Andy... I also have it, second hand, that Larry Stock was living in Texas has also passed away... I think that either Jody or Moses (the guitar Luthier) told me that or maybe it was Billy at the MN Music Cafe. I have a 2 set CD of the Metro All Stars, I mixed from audio cassettes, playing at the Libation Station with about a dozen songs or so but the ambiance is very noisy and not easy to listen to. Andy's the M.C. I also have a roll of Black and White film I shot of them at the Libation Station. I guess I'll talk to Jody and Danny about putting a sound track mix with the photos in memory of Andy and Larry some day in my retirement soon. NOTE: Hulk Hogan used to barge into the Station from time to time and dubbed me "Sir Little Johnny Libation" with a Schmidt Extra Special, called Black Death, Beer Bottle, then I stood up and guzzled it...! Terry, Hulk Hogan, said: Black Death Night of the Hulkster for life...! Terry never showed me my mount tough and I haven't seen him since. Those were sure fun times...! Tap Beer, Weed, One of my forever life's loves AnnIE and Rock and Roll...! Peace. I'm at: Giojohnni at Yahoo com P.S. The Libation Station's head bar tender Billy H. now runs Grand 7 Saloon on Fort Road.
Regarding April 24th 2008 post about drummer Andy Gauthier and his previous band Phil N' The Blanks. They were not the Chicago band, same name yes. I stole Andy from the Seattle band Dancer when we shared a gig at the Trading Post Saloon (Missoula). We were known as The Raggband at that time later changed to Phil n' The Blanks.
David McGarry
Guitarist-Raggband/Phil n' The Blanks
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