Genre: Punk
Hometown: Wilmington/Philadelphia
Who's who: Matt Ditty, vocals and keys; Brett Bendistis, vocals and drums; Ray Wildman, vocals and keys; John Webster, vocals and guitar; Jacque Varsalona, vocals and bass.
Behind the name: "Camp Dracula refers to the base name of a group of Rumanian troopers enlisted in Afghanistan. We first heard it referenced on 'The Daily Show's' moment of zen, which showed Bush bragging on and on about it and how they were helping the American effort. So, it was political, but the word 'Camp' is a definitive reference to fun and 'Dracula' is a classical reference. We try to incorporate all three of those aspects in our music." -- Matt
MySpace: www.myspace.com/campdraculaband
Our favorite track on the new album is the apolitically anthemic "Stumpin," the one in which Bush rambles at the start. Our favorite verse goes: We'll stick sticker ribbons on the back of our cars/And we'll wear rubber bracelets around the arms/And we'll change this whole gosh-darned world together.
"I'm politically obsessed, and though I wasn't trying to be mock Republicans or Democrats in particular, but everyone really, and how ridiculous they all are. Politics is 90 percent what you say and 10 percent what you do. It's so superficial, the whole, 'I'm a patriot, you're not a patriot,' movement. But none of it adds up to mean anything."
When is the big CD release party at Mojo 13?
"This Saturday, May 16, around 8 p.m. or so. I, Fanblades and Vaudeville Fusion Bellydance will both be opening. Cover is $7 and we'll be selling CDs for $5. Hope to see a good crowd."
-Rob
If you want to be considered for the band bio feature, you must play original music, perform live in places other than your basement and have some recorded tracks readily available. Send your info to Rob Kalesse at rkalesse@sparkweekly.com.
