Live at La Fonda...
When their rock ‘n’ roll trio lost its guitarist, keyboardist Steve O’Neill and drummer Ron Crowder were surprised to find that it felt like a gain. “We just loved the way it sounded,” says O’Neill. “We have the best little harmony around.” Four years later,
The Gruve has polished its act of vintage soul covers—James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson—punctuated by entertaining banter with the audience and each other.
The two native New Mexicans are both accomplished musicians, vocalists, and recording engineers who put their own twist on old-school favorites. “That makes it fun and creative for us,” O’Neill says. “And we love just talking to the people—that kind of sets us apart.” The dynamic duo describe their monthly gigs at La Fonda as the perfect setting for their upbeat groove. Visitors find it refreshing to dance to their favorite R&B hits in Santa Fe, O’Neill says. “We’re not a 2015 pop band,” he laughs. “It’s fun, happy music.”
