Imagine if you will, what would happen if Jeff Buckley and Fiona Apple had a kid. They let Death Cab for Cutie pick out the color of the room. They had Ben Folds and Jason Mraz do the food shopping. And when he was old enough, they had John Mayer teach him guitar lessons. Then imagine what that kid would grow up to play, and you have Smile Pretty Misery. The brainchild of four friends, Jaymes, Al, Mike and Chris, Smile Pretty Misery found its genesis in the Long Island club scene. From there, it has spread its blend of Indiepopjazzrockiness (one word) to places all over the island, having rocked colleges from Queens College to Stonybrook U and several in between. Songs from their self-released EP, Measured in Miles, can be heard on such radio stations as WUSB 90.1, 88.7 WRHU and 94.3 WMJC, with plans to be on many more in the New Year. With a very radio friendly “catchiness” and sweet taste for the off color, bitter, and ironic, Smile Pretty Misery has a sweet soul that can sooth and satiate. And they love alliteration. You’ll love them. We guarantee it.
Jaymes Welsh ~ lead singer & lyricist ~ One wouldn't ordinarily think a childhood spent studying opera and classical music would lend itself to a career as a rock singer. Jaymes, however, pulls it off without a hitch. His lyrics, often ironic but always compelling, have drawn comparisons to Fiona Apple, Ben Folds and Jeff Buckley.
Al Domingo ~ guitarist & additional vocals ~ A sensitive and gifted guitar player, Al's ambient style has been compared to that of Jimi Hendrix, John Mayer and The Edge of U2. After collaborating with a number of local singer-songwriters and working with Jaymes on a previous project, Al found a new home in the musicianship and creative energy of Smile Pretty Misery.
Mike Bayer ~ bass & additional guitars ~ Mild-mannered computer technician by day, Mike Bayer holds down the bass. Lest it float away. He also plays it.
Chris Bonacorsa ~ percussion / drums ~ A polished and resourceful musician, Chris helps take SPM's song crafting to a new level by thinking beyond the realm of traditional drumming. In fact, it has been said of Chris, that he is most excellent at "hitting on" things. Chris also plays vibraphone.
Cliff Ribeiro ~ percussion / drums ~ Whats the difference between a jazz musician and a pizza? A pizza can feed a family of four! After he heard this joke, he knew he had to change that concept. Jazz/Fusion drummer convert to rock and pop, cliff brings his own fundamental style and licks to the kit. Hard Hitter, known to be soft with the ladies.