January 8, 2006
OAKLAND, CA. Bay Area regular Tim Smolens has rejoined the musical group, Fishtank Ensemble, on double bass after a 6-month absence.
Tim is known for his work with the groups Estradasphere, ISS and Don Salsa. He also is the producer for Estradasphere's new album, and the brother of Fishtank guitarist Doug Smolens (known in Flamenco circles as "El Douje").
He replaces Glenn Allen, who toured with the band during 2005. The band thanks Glenn for his contribution to the success of the West Coast tour and for his professionalism on short notice.
Fishtank Ensemble played over 35 shows -- from San Diego, CA to Bellingham, WA -- during its tour, mostly to packed houses.
The band has just released its debut CD, Super Raoul, available from the band or from CD Baby (http://www.cdbaby.com). Tim Smolens's appears on the CD--so it is especially nice to have him back.
Fishtank plans a CD release party and show on January 12 at the Freight & Salvage in Berkeley. This will be the last chance to see Fishtank until next fall, because lead violinist Fabrice Martinez and lead-singer and violinist Ursula Knudsen will be returning to Europe, as they do every summer. (Also, anyone who has attended a recent performance knows that Ursula is expecting a baby.)
Fishtank Ensemble (formerly "Fishtank") is based in Oakland and Santa Cruz, California. The 7-piece group offers a unique blend of up-tempo Gypsy and Balkan tunes and original compositions. Since the group's inception in 2003, it has been delighting audiences up and down the West Coast. Don't miss them on January 12 at the Freight & Salvage!