3 dB down started in 2002 as the acoustic duo of Jeremy Berry and Scott May. It was born out of their desire to strip everything back down to basics after playing in the 6-person band Aerial View which they had co-founded with Brian Nay in 1998. They re-worked existing compositions and wrote new ones, this time with Jeremy playing piano. In October of 2002 they began recording an EP with Paul Speer at Rainstorm Studio. The project featured local artists Susan Robkin (vocals), Lizzy Daymont (electric bass), Spencer Hoveskeland (double bass), and Tracy Hoveskeland (violoncello) and was titled Five Songs This Fall.
While the break was rewarding, it didn’t take long for them to start getting the itch to put together a full band again. Shortly after releasing their EP they began searching for musicians to expand 3 dB down. They brought in drummer David Wamsley (Aerial View) and added bassist Scott Syltebo, and in the spring of 2003 they welcomed guitarist/songwriter David Kubiczky. The addition of such complementary musicians propelled the band forward, expanding sonic possibilities and leading to a host of new songs. When David Wamsley left the band, a long drummer search eventually led them to Donovan Pfeifer. His playing fit the band perfectly, giving new life to old songs and sparking ideas for new songs.
In late 2004 with the news that twins were on the way, Donovan announced that he would have to leave the band. Wanting to capture the current chemistry of 3 dB down they decided to return to Rainstorm Studio to record a full-length CD with Paul Speer. Holding Up The Sky was released in the spring of 2005.
3 dB down has only scratched the surface of their creative potential. In each other they have found a unique musical collaboration that promises to bear fruit for some time to come.
Music has always been a big part of my life. It has been a soundtrack to my experiences. My influences span a large time period and cross multiple styles, but in recent years I have been inspired by bands like Toad The Wet Sprocket, Counting Crows, and Train, and singer songwriters like James Taylor, Patty Griffin, Shawn Mullins, Edwin McCain, and John Mayer. As a songwriter, I have sought to move people the way I have been moved by these artists. I have the simple goal of making honest and passionate music that is accessible. It’s hard to believe that it has been 8 years since Scott May and I started playing music together. It has been a great personal and musical adventure, taking us all the way from cover songs in the basement to a full-length original CD. Through all the ups and downs it has been a positive, creative outlet in my life. I can’t imagine what it would be like to not have the band. These guys are talented musicians and songwriters but more importantly they are great friends. It has been my privilege to create with them and I look forward to the future.
Email: jeremy AT 3dbdown DOT com.
Starting to play at age 12 I had several early rock influences that drew me to the guitar. After years of playing cover tunes in several different bands, I began working on some original music that came from the soul. I have also rediscovered the simplicity and enjoyment of playing acoustic guitar again. Writing songs that move people as much as they do the band whether electric or acoustic has always been my goal in creating music. My current influences are: Robin Ford, Michael Hedges, Willy Porter, Mike Stern, Steely Dan, Zeppelin and anything that can light the musical fire within.
Email: scottm AT 3dbdown DOT com.
There are few things in life that are more satisfying than making music. And I've never had as much fun doing this as I do when playing with the rest of the guys in this band. My current influences are Poi Dog Pondering, Francis Dunnery, Dave Matthews Band, Ani Difranco, Beck, Modest Mouse, Hothouse Flowers, Beth Orton.
Email: davidk AT 3dbdown DOT com.
Bassist Scott Syltebo has been playing music for close to 30 years in various groups ranging from orchestra to jazz to rock and roll. Recent bands he has associated with include the South End Rhythm Method, the Electric Catfish and M.A.R.S. His influences include Weather Report, Yes, ELP, The Grateful Dead and The Who. His favorite part of experiencing music, whether it be playing or listening, is being there when it all comes together, and the piece of music touches the soul.
Email: scotts AT 3dbdown DOT com.
I was born in Seattle, Washington, and began playing drums 30 years ago. I have always gravitated toward multiple and diverse styles of drums and percussion. My biggest influences have probably come from Nigel Olson, Stewart Copeland, Keith Moon, and John Bonham. Joining 3db Down provides an amazing opportunity to play with incredibly talented, passionate, and inspired songwriters, musicians, and human beings. That's what music is all about to me - sharing passion and inspiration.
Email: daves AT 3dbdown DOT com.
