Our drummer Danny Lee recalls how HemlockHotel's story began.
There was a hidden piece of heaven in our old office complex, a highly guarded secret known only by the musicians who worked in the building.
I found out about this place when a coworker asked me to tune the drum set in the music room. Intrigued, I gladly volunteered, I wanted to see this place first hand. I was told to go down to the parking garage and just follow the music. I did just that and came across an unmarked door between two cars.
Once inside, I quickly realized that this was more than just a music room, it was a full-on rehearsal space with amplifiers, keyboards, a PA system and, of course, a full drum set.
Musicians working in the building would meet in this sanctuary during their lunch hour for a quick jam session before going back to finish their workday. That's where I meet Rod and Mark.
We played weekly with different musicians and we were even asked to play a few charitable events. This went on for a while. However, life goes on. Rod left the office complex for career advancement and not too long after, I accepted a new position elsewhere.
A few months later, I got a call from Rod asking me if I wanted to accompany him on stage. This is where HemlockHotel's story begins.
More from The Grove in our next issue.
Until next time.
