Dad and Son Form Local Band, Perform NBC's "Today Show"

In this week's installment of Spotlight on Local Music, it's all in the family, literally. The Vinnys is dad and son, Vinny Sr. and Vinny Jr.

Here's more about the two-man family band. They've graced some local stages (Veteran's Park) and also the "Today Show," and write an anniversary song each year.

Q: Give us some straight-up About You type stuff. A brief history of your band.

The Vinnys are a Father and Son acoustic duo. Vinny Sr. is a seasoned musician who played with various bands and singers over the years at the Jersey Shore and beyond. Vinny Jr. has been singing since age 5 and picked up the guitar at age 12. We’d always play songs together for fun, but in 2008, we decided to take it somewhere and formed The Vinnys. 

Q: What is the current line-up of your band and when did you form?

Vinny Sr. and Vinny Jr. We formed in 2008. 

Q:What genre would you describe your music as/what bands have you been compared to?

Acoustic/rock/alternative.  We’ve been compared to a mixture of Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, The Cranberries, and Garbage, with a Geddy Lee (Rush) voice, as told by fans. 

Q: What is your favorite place to perform at on the Jersey Shore and why?

in Bayville. The stage and the crowds are just amazing, and there’s always such a high energy there. 

Q: Any recent news from the group--new music, big shows, upcoming tours?

We’ll be recording an anniversary song as we do every year that celebrates our formation. 

Q: What can we expect from a live show?

You can expect a wide variety of music ranging from originals to classic rock covers converted to acoustic format. 

Q: What are some of your biggest musical influences?

Rush, Tori Amos, Maynard James Keenan (Tool, A Perfect Circle, Puscifer), Shirley Manson (Garbage), Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd.

Q: What does your upcoming show calendar look like? Where can we hear your music?

We’re on a break right now, but should have some shows lined up for the Fall-Winter. www.myspace.com/thevinnys, iTunes, Amazon, and our music is currently featured on WKIM Radio.

Q: How do we find out more about you?

Visit www.myspace.com/thevinnys 

Q: Anything else to add?

In 2009, we were fortunate to be asked to perform a song on NBC’s The Today Show.