The Wake

Though their logo states “Come for the eye candy, stay for the music,” Possibly Bailey has a large fan base who come for the music; well, maybe they come for the eye candy, too. The band consists of four University of Minnesota seniors: Ryan Rentmeester on lead guitar and vocals, Rob Johnstone on rhythm guitar and vocals, Ryan Muetzel on bass and Dave Hansen on drums and percussion. Describing themselves as “funk jam,” their music is influenced by Red Hot Chili Peppers, Ben Harper, and 311 among others. Inspired by Harper’s beats and Hansen’s experience in a steel drum band, the group integrates congas and bongos into their sound.

Possibly Bailey has been performing together for a little over a year, though band mates Rentmeester and Johnstone have been playing together since high school. Muetzler joined three years ago, while Hansen entered the lineup last year. Originally named Atticus, they changed names when Hansen joined after finding their name was already copywrited. They tried the name “Colorblind Bailey,” but Johnstone says, “We’re musicians, not activists … the name had too many connotations.” So they went in search of a new word to go in front of Bailey. When asked what the band’s name was Johnston once said, “Possibly…. Bailey” and the name just stuck.

From O’Gara’s to The Steak Knife, Possibly Bailey performs at a variety of venues. Each place gives a little different atmosphere and clientele, which helps the band reach new audiences. At each, they usually perform a one-and-a-half hour show, including 15 songs, most written by lead guitarist Rentmeester. While at the Steak Knife, they are often paid with beer and food, but gain exposure in the campus community. Other favorite venues include Keller’s and O’Garas. Keller’s, located in the basement of Gastov’s, provides an exuberant 21+ crowd, while O’Gara’s comes equipped with a green room stocked full of free beer. The band is happiest when performing in front of a crowd. As Johnstone says “We put a lot of time into [our music] and it’s fun to share it with people.”

Not only are Hansen and Johnstone members of Possibly Bailey, they are also the president and vice president of the Possibly Bailey Fan Club. Started last month to gain an e-mail account with more space, anyone who goes to shows can consider themselves members. Upcoming ventures include November 7 and 21 appearances at the Steak Knife, and competing in The Library’s Battle of the Bands in late November. This spring Possibly Bailey plans to release an album and move to Chicago to test the waters there. If you’d like to find out future show times, or find more information on Possibly Bailey, check out their website http://www.angelfire.com/rock3/possiblybailey.