Empire West Live | Music Photography Colorado Springs, CO. | Colorado Springs Music Photographer

Eli FLynn | Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad & Jack West | 2005 American Deluxe Fender Stratocaster (HSS)

"I was gifted this guitar at the age of 17. I was visiting my Aunt and Uncle in St. Louis and MAN was I moody and hormonal. They were so kind to me and as a matter of fact, always have been. They noticed my excitement for rock music after I jammed with my uncle for a bit and without hesitation said, “It’s yours!” I was so stoked and from that moment on, this axe has been my go-to for studio sessions and live performances.This strat has such a warmth that I have yet to appreciate on any other guitar. It has been with me from coast to coast, year after year, suffered a few minor battle scars, but undoubtedly has been my most trustworthy companion." 

Who is your favorite Rochester musician?
'Danielle Ponder. This woman is f***ing hilarious. I recently played a few out of town shows with Ms. Ponder and had an amazing time. She’s an artist who has taught me a lot, simply through observation. Here is a hard working black woman, former district attorney, who uses music to advocate for social justice. Rochester will never know how lucky we are to have someone like her living here. Recently, I sat down with Danielle for a collaboration (spoiler alert ?) and talked about artist authenticity. She was so appreciative of my work while at the same time, offered excellent advice on how to stay creative and genuine with my music. I’ll never forget that. Thanks D!"

What is your favorite Rochester music venue?
'I guess I’m biased when I say, Three Heads Brewing. I was a bartender there from the beginning. I played the stage multiple times to a packed house. But, that’s not why it’s my favorite. I learned a lot about myself here. How to take care of my physical and mental well-being, how to stay disciplined and focused, and how to #bekind. Hats off to Geoff Dale and the entire staff for seeing things in me I had yet to discover. I love you guys."

Why do you love the Rochester music scene?
"We’re pretty damn lucky here. Not just for our talent but for the day to day experience. We have our struggles and misfortunes. But for us artists, it’s kind of like ammo for our arsenal. There is so much to appreciate about the city and just as much to question on an ethical level. Art serves a purpose here. I’m pretty psyched about that idea!"