About the Real Nasty:
The Real Nasty is a power trio based out of the San Francisco Bay Area, known for their ability to flow seamlessly from country to hard rock with a raw, unpretentious force that leaves audiences reeling. Their huge sound and large repertoire is bolstered by the unique instrumentation of upright bass, guitar, and cajon (an Afro-Cuban box drum that emulates the sound of a kick and snare).
After forming in 2009, The Real Nasty (bassist Ryan Lukas, guitarist Jacob Groopman, and percussionist Matthew “Smitty” Smith) were immediately noticed by Berkeley label Ninth Street Opus. Shortly after signing a deal with NSO, The Real Nasty recorded “Paper City” live in a two day session. The result is an undeniably charged double EP set of original music - the rocking disc one, "Downtown" and the countrified disc two, "The Sticks." Shortly after these sessions the band began playing shows to rave responses from both audiences and the press.
The Real Nasty has been described as a thoughtful and energetic mix of rock and country backed up by an explosive live show. They draw inspiration from their rock and country heroes alike - Led Zeppelin, The Stones, Hendrix, The White Stripes, and Uncle Tupelo, as well as Kris Kristofferson, Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson.
The Real Nasty now has a working repertoire of over 50 original songs and is currently touring behind their “Paper City” release. The band is also putting the finishing touches on yet another double EP set tentatively entitled “Strangers and Friends” which will be released on Ninth Street Opus in the Fall of 2010.
Band Members:
Ryan Lukas
Upright Bass, Vocals
Ryan Lukas is a bad mother. An accomplished upright and electric bassist in his own right, The Real Nasty has allowed for Ryan to come into his own as a songwriter having written over 50 tunes for the band. Ryan is a graduate of the Crane School of Music and has worked as a professional bassist and teacher for over 15 years performing with such ensembles as The Latin Kings, The Flux, .. For San Sebastian, Sensamaya, The Angry Philosophers, and many more. Ryan is also an adjunct professor at Santa Clara University.
Jacob Groopman
Electric Guitar, Vocals
Jacob likes to keep it simple and rock solid. Using a bare bones telecaster set up, Jacob has developed a raw guitar tone that ties together the original sound of The Real Nasty. Jacob is a graduate of the Oberlin conservatory of music and formerly toured with the award winning afrobeat band ALBINO!. A consummate and well rounded performer Jacob is also a mainstay in the local bluegrass scene and a highly regarded teacher.
Matthew "Smitty" Smith
Cajon, Cymbals, Tambourine, Modified Kick Drum
Smitty pursuit of music and percussion has taken him across the globe for studies in folkloric and popular music ranging from West African, Cuban, Rock, Jazz and Beyond. Now he has developed a whole new idea for a rock and country drum set using the Cajon. Smitty's style is varied and adaptable earning him a reputation as a creative and solid percussive force in any ensemble that he is a part of. Smitty is also a former member of ALBINO! and a current student of West African master Drummer and Dancer CK Ladzepko.