AC/DC once sang, “It’s a long way to the top, if you want to rock and roll,” and singer/songwriter Alex Boatman knows this all too well. Since forming The Boatmen in 2009, in Syracuse, New York, he’s endured his share of obstacles, including odd gigs, departing band members, and simply juggling bandmates’ varied responsibilities. But adversity helps you gain wisdom. “There is one thing you do not want to do when forming a band,” he offers. “Don’t post an ad saying ‘I’m forming a band and I need everything—drummer, guitarist, bassist, accordion, and recorder players! I can sing, but I only perform post-hydraulic-washboard-core music. Serious inquiries only. People will be like, ‘Huh?’”
Such is the wry sense of humor and perspective that has informed his musically eclectic band and enabled them to overcome just about any curveball thrown their way. As a result, the Boatmen are starting to make some noise on the Central New York circuit. They recently performed at the New York State Fair, where Making Music caught up with Boatman to learn more about his band and glean some advice on what it’s like to juggle life with one’s passion.
Who are The Boatmen and how did the band come together?
I formed the original three-piece group in 2009 with drummer Brandon Morse and former bassist Pat Gillespie. Over the years, with the additions of guitarist Kevin Barfield, bassist Paul Puzzullo, and trumpet/keyboard player Ryan Benz, the group has transformed into a sturdy and steady act that can be found performing all over Central New York. We’re all Liverpool High School alumni too.
When not making music what do you guys do for a living?
I think what makes our group so unique and intriguing is the fact that no two members are alike, yet we have a bond that’s very familiar and comfortable. Our jobs vary as much as our music and influences—within the group we have a banker, a plumber, a salesman, a radio producer, and a butcher.
How do you all find time for playing music?
It’s pretty incredible thinking about the amount of songs we’ve learned, recorded, and performed just over this past year—especially when you consider jobs, girlfriends/fiances, dogs, and all of life’s responsibilities. What makes this group click is the simple fact that every member just loves music. Some of us have been performing in bands since high school, some went to school for music, and some just fell in love with their instruments and could never put them down.
What advice do you have for someone wanting to form a band and do what you’re doing?
My advice is simple, you need to do two things: First, socialize—get involved in the music community, go to an open mics, go to open jams, be open-minded, talk to anyone who can relate to your passion for music. Second, practice your instrument, whether it’s guitar, drums, vocals, etc. Team up with some friends who play and don’t be afraid to shine. But remember, no one likes an egomaniac either.
You recently played the New York State Fair. What was that like?
This was actually the second year in row The Boatmen have performed at the state fair and we had a blast. I couldn’t believe the turnout we had for a noon time-slot on the last day of the fair. One thing’s for sure, we have some amazing fans. And anyone who stuck around until the end of our set got quite a treat as a man dressed up in medieval attire seemed to be entranced by our rendition of “Shakedown Street” by the Grateful Dead, which caused him to dance and roll all over the dance floor. It’s exactly why I love being in a band—I’ll never forget experiences and hilarious instances like that.
What was your most unusual gig?
We were booked as a four-piece to perform at a local college plaza. We loaded up with all of our equipment—full drum kit, massive PA system, lighting rig, etc. When we got there, we were all taken aback by how small the venue was. It was much more conducive to an acoustic, coffeehouse-type, set. Needless to say, we always laugh now when someone says, “Remember the time we rocked that Dunkin’ Donuts!”
What’s the biggest challenge the band has faced?
The most consistent challenge that we face is the type of music each bandmate desires to perform. Each brings such a unique and influential style to the table that it can be a battle of compromise and cooperation when it comes to song selection, set lists, and how we perform as a group. Our collaborations on both covers and originals have become a journey that we’re all part of. As a whole, our taste in music ranges from Phish to Led Zeppelin, The Band, Mumford and Sons, Johnny Cash, Foo Fighters, Dave Matthews, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Primus, Zac Brown, the list goes on. In the same way I acknowledge this as one of our biggest challenges, I also know it’s what sets us apart.
