Exclusive Interview with Gerry Dantone of UniversalDice

Gerry Dantone, UniversalDice

How would you classify your music? 

We are an indie classic rock band, which, to me, means we can try anything.  We do not have to stay within any limits or boundaries, so all music avenues are available.

Who are some of your top 5 musical influences?

The Beatles, The Who, Eric Clapton, Pink Floyd, Springsteen.

What do you want fans to take from your music?

I hope they learn or gain some insight into life, relate to the songs, and get some enjoyment from the music.

How’s the music scene in your locale?

The original music scene is next to non-existent on Long Island for bands. Singer-songwriters have places to play, however. In general, it is difficult for songwriters, rock or otherwise, to gain traction.

When did you know you were destined for music? 

I don’t believe in destiny. I choose to make music because I enjoy it. I hope I’m good at it, but you never know for sure. For me to think otherwise would be overconfident.  Maybe when I sellout MSG, get a platinum album or win a Grammy I’ll know I was meant to be a musician!  Until then, I’ll always looking for positive reinforcement.

What is the best concert you have been to?  

Pink Floyd, Muse, The Killers, Procol Harum, Paul McCartney, Springsteen, Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Dire Straits, just too many to name. I’ve seen almost all the classic bands, and many were incredible.  I have to say that Muse is the best live band I know of right now. They are ridiculous.

What do you like most about playing live?

It’s great to see people appreciate songs they’ve never heard before!  That is great when that happens. It’s not easy.

Is there a song on your latest CD release here that stands out as your personal favorite, and why?

Our current releases are two singles to commemorate 25 years of UniversalDice, and we picked these, “Last Prayer” and “Out of Many, One,” because they were exceptional and are still remarkable cuts. Bob Barcus and I have put out almost 70 songs so far and we’ll be releasing a new original album in 2023, “misfit Memoirs” which is appropriate, since, after 25 years, we have a right to issue our memoirs!

How have you evolved as an artist over the last year?

In the last year I’ve gotten more involved with piano, organ and string arrangements, and my vocals and harmonies are just a little more sophisticated. There is no limit to what you can learn in music.  It never ends.  

If you could meet, play a gig, co-write a song, have dinner, have a drink with any band or artist (dead or alive) who would it be and why?

I have no idea who would be good to work with in co-writing a song.  It would have to be someone I know and consider a friend and trust. Having dinner with Paul McCartney, Matt Bellamy, Bruce Springsteen, and many more would probably be cool because they seem like good people. That would be the key thing.  We could talk songwriting.

What’s next for you?

Lead guitarist Bob Barcus and I have put out almost 70 songs so far and we’ll be releasing a new original album in 2023, “misfit Memoirs” which is appropriate since, after 25 years, we have a right to issue our memoirs!  Joining us will be Ed Canova on bass, Vin Crici on piano, and Walt Sargent on keyboards. When you’re an aspiring band, you can’t just settle. You must go all out, the best you know how.

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End of Interview