Over the past few years - even months - it’s been obvious that Hanover is growing in many areas other than just population. Although many teens often complain about the lack of things to do in town, Hanover is growing as a hot spot in the area of local music. Believe it or not, Hanover actually draws listeners and music fans from surrounding areas such as Gettysburg, Lancaster, York, and even Maryland. It seems people of all areas are interested in hearing what the bands of Hanover have to offer - from the local garage bands to bluegrass ensembles. So isn’t it about time that these bands have some recognition in the public spotlight?
One band with Hanover roots has been drawing attention for its unique style and talented musician-ship. This band is none other than Gordon’s Laboratory Band, also known as GLB (although there are several other theories as to what these letters actually stand for). The band formed in the spring of 1999, as the members wanted to create a band which incorporated many styles of music as well as an original sound. Such a band was necessary at a time when the music industry was losing its purity and passion as it got caught up in cliché hype of "pop" music.
"It can never fully be understood why the band was started...One day we all woke up in Jeff’s garage with instruments duct taped to our bodies, so we just went with the flow," explains Justin Jarrett, the band’s guitar player and vocalist.
Other members include Justin’s brother Adam Jarrett (guitar/vocals), Tim Alles (keyboard/vocals), Jeff Fry (bass/vocals), and Jimmy Troxell (drums/vocals). However, the band is not limited to these members, as their carefree personalities allow former band members or guest musicians to hop up on stage and jam with them during a few of their songs.
Some would classify GLB’s style as "funky punk folk" or "nerd rock," but the band tries not to associate themselves as any particular genre, as doing so would limit their creativity. Many fans express they like the band for their talent, chemistry, excellent stage presence, and overall electric energy.
Local fan Eric Yowaiski, a senior at Hanover High School, exclaimed, "I like the crazy jams they get themselves into, and the whole band puts on a good show. They play lots of great originals, but they are known to do some of the best covers ever."
In the past they have been known to cover many of their own inspirations’ songs such as those of Phish, Weezer, The Talking Heads, The Beatles, and even theme songs from Legend of Zelda and Ghostbusters.
Another unique quality is that they never play the same set list twice. "As opposed to a lot of other bands, GLB has a sense of humor, and we’re not afraid to try new things [or] go out on a limb and do something that we’re not even sure how it’s going to turn out...I’ve always said that if a band doesn’t take risks, there’s no point in doing it. Plus, we have fun together," stated Adam.
"We’re willing to try anything once - musically that is," Justin added.
GLB’s original songs cover many emotions and experiences. "Dustpan and Broom," for example, covers heartbroken emotions, while songs like "Float" cover the "euphoric feeling of live music." Other unique songs such as "Syphilitic Iguana," don’t express a clear meaning, but rather are open for interpretation. They even wrote "Alive Tonight" which alludes to a local lady who doesn’t support their creative efforts in music, but instead enjoys calling the cops when they practice.
Craig Lillich, also a senior at Hanover High School, expressed, "I like their ferociously exuberant spirit, complete randomness, and chess/war-craft playing prowess."
Many of their songs are born through a process of one person coming up with an idea then taking it from there or also from improvisational jamming leading to a rhythm that fits a song. Some songs come about in other ways. Bass guitarist Jeff Fry explains, "We were in the middle of a rehearsal of some song, when we hear my little brother announce his presence at the top of the steps. At first we paid no heed, but then something strange happened. After several moments, we all seemed to look up at the same time to the rather unexpected, disturbing, and hilarious sight of my little brother, affectionately nick-named ‘The Hob,’ enjoying nudity in it’s entirety. After a hearty laugh, we played a twenty minute jam which will forever be known as ‘The Naked Hob Jam.’ "
Although GLB’s audience sometimes includes young children or even middle-aged adults, their main audience is college kids. However, GLB’s target audience is anyone with an open mind who is willing to give their music a chance. "It’s definitely tough trying to have a band in Hanover," explains Justin. "Hanover doesn’t offer many things for young adults, therefore, there are limited places for us to play. Derf Maitland, owner of The Reader’s Cafe, has never turned us down and welcomes us to play at his place."
Despite the fact that no one in the band has blonde hair and the lead guitarist looks like Aladdin, the members wished to express their dedication to playing to their best ability as often as possible. "Connecting with other musicians on a personal level and forging our ideas together to make music has been the greatest experience - also spilling chocolate milk all over the recording studio," tells Justin. "GLB shows are about having a good experience, both for the band and the audience. They both rely on each other for energy."
Adam also adds, "When I’m playing, I feel like I’m extending my arm to shake the audience’s hand. It’s cool when they shake back."
If you would like to come check out GLB’s unique, funky grooves or reach out and "shake hands," GLB will be playing at the Reader’s Cafe January 10th from 7 - 10:30 pm and at the Howard Johnson Inn December 27th from 7-12.