From left to right, Chasing Carmen band members Sweeney, D’Alessio, Rogg-Meltzer and D’Abrosca. Photo by Alejandro Ulloa.
Starting a band is a common endeavor for college students. However, it’s a rare group that stays together after graduation.
Chasing Carmen, an alternative rock group, has survived graduation from Fairfield and recently has been nominated for a 2013 New England Music Award (NEMA).
Senior Evan D’Abrosca, Zakk Rogg-Meltzer ’10, Joey D’Alessio ’12 and Peter Sweeney ’11 have been playing together since 2010, and they have played venues like Toad’s Place in New Haven and have opened for famous names such as Saving Abel.
Now Chasing Carmen is being recognized for their work with a nomination in the coveted Best of Connecticut category. As one of five bands in the category, “this nomination means that we are not just another band who met in college,” said D’Alessio. “We are actually being recognized for our hard work,” he added.
The New England Music Awards are presented each year to musicians who live and work in New England. Those honored have established themselves in the region and have contributed to the musical culture in New England.
Over 100 artists and bands have been nominated for categories covering all genres of popular music, including Best Rock Band, Best Blues Band and Best New Act. With each nomination NEMA aims to “celebrate and recognize some of the area’s best musical achievements,” according to their website.
NEMA’s nomination committee consists of representatives from a variety of careers within the music industry including journalists, talent buyers and record label executives. The committee represents the full scope of the music industry, as well as all six New England states. The winner of each category is chosen by popular vote.
Though the New England Music Awards are only in their second year, a win would mean a lot to Chasing Carmen, said D’Alessio. “This [award] would be validation to the fact that we are around to stay,” he said.
The awards show will take place on April 13 at 7 p.m. at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium in Lowell, Mass. following The Artists Conference, which will feature guest speakers, discussion panels and other sessions aimed at the independent artists of New England. Tickets to the event are $10 or $15.
The event will be hosted by “The Rock Babe” Suzanne Tonaire and will feature live performances by the Adam Ezra Group and Hot Day at the Zoo, as well as The Alternate Routes and Sarah Blacker.
Currently, Chasing Carmen is in the studio recording their second album. Their album release show will be in June.
To cast your vote for Chasing Carmen or any other artists in the New England Music Awards, visit the website.
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