The Secret Syde
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The Secret Syde was a moderately popular punk rock band from the 80s. Formed in New Jersey, they achieved the most success in The Netherlands, where their music was aired on the BBC. They were also very popular in the southern portion of the United States, namely New Orleans. The band was known for their onstage antics, which included amazing light shows, go-go dancers, and Steve DeVito playing the guitar with his tongue.
Their first album “Hidden Secrets” was widely overlooked upon its release, but has since become a popular collector’s item. The second album, “Erebus” went unreleased, but some tracks gained airtime on the BBC in the Netherlands. They also opened for several national acts and they were an opening act for Joe Perry in 1983. Due to creative differences they disbanded in 1985.
Another incarnation of the band, a duo consisting of original member Jon Davies and guitarist Wayne Larson, opened for The Dead Kennedys in 1986. Around that same time Davies fronted Laughing Soup Dish for a few performances, and the band was billed as The Secret Syde. Fans say that the band sounded very different.
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Recent Activities
In 2000 the band reformed, with original members plus Wayne Larsen, to record a third album. It was recorded in Red Bank, New Jersey and was also unreleased. According to Jon Davies, tracks on the album included 'Madelaine', 'She is', 'Shadow','Dream Girl', and 'Freak Parade.'
Their last live show was a reunion in 2002, during which the band performed as a trio consisting of Steve DeVito, Dave DeSantes, and Rob Angello.
In 2005 Steve DeVito began touring with his friend Josh Zuckerman, whose music has gained national attention, even being featured on the TV series Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List. Steve is also set to be featured on Josh’s upcoming album “Out From Under,” scheduled for a July 2006 release along with the music videos.
To this date there are two unreleased Secret Syde projects, Erebus and a 2000 recording, and several recorded demo tracks. Tracks from Erebus have appeared for free download on their website, although an actual CD release has yet to surface.
The band is on somewhat of a hiatus, and it doesn't appear as though they will perform live anytime soon. Steve DeVito has gone on record several times saying he wanted a reunion.
The website has stated several times that Erebus will be released on CD in the near future.
Online
Internal linkIn 2004, theirofficial website was launched. It was later announced that Erebus would eventually be released on CD. The site began as a small fanpage hosted on bravenet, but has since grown into a large website which features a photo gallery, past tour dates, solo tour dates, and free mp3 downloads. The band was among the first of the Mutha Records bands to have an official website, but among the last to have a MySpace profile.
Related Bands
- Laughing soupdish- Wayne Larsen was a member of "The Dish." Dave eventually joined the band as well, and Jon did as well.
- The X-men (Band)-Dave is a member of this band, and they were the opening act for The Secret Syde in 2002. Steve DeVito has recorded with them as well.
Trivia
- Jon Davies fronted the Laughing Soupdish when he opened for The Dead Kennedys in Dover. The band performed under the name The Secret Syde.
- Both Jon Davies and Dave DeSantis appear on the Laughing Soupdish album Overthrow the Underground.
- The band spelled their name "Syde" as a tribute to Syd Barrett.
- The band had a team of female dancers who appeared on stage with them, known as the Go-Go Sluts.
Categories
American punk rock groups