NY1.com

  62º

06/16/2010 12:40 PM

Marah Provides New York Cool Via Amish Country

By: George Whipple

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The rock 'n' roll revival band Marah is performing in the Big Apple in support of their new record, "Life is a Problem."

When NY1 caught the band in the Bowery Electric on the Bowery, the performers said that even though the album was made in a farmhouse in Amish Country, they have not shunned the Electronic Age.

"The album will also be available digital download on iTunes, international, worldwide, for download. And the vinyl comes with a free download as well -- and that's June 22," says pianist and singer Christine Smith.

Smith and singer-songwriter-guitarist David Bielanko, who are longtime bandmates and friends, recorded this album as a duo.

"You and, you know, what your mama gave you, and like an old piano and an old drumset. We tried to make interesting music, which we've been doing for quite a while," says Bielanko.

Bielanko is influenced by the roots of American music.

"Naturally, you go to an accordion or you go to a mandolin or something to get you where you want to go," he says.

Both band members have Smith has New York roots.

Smith: It's [rock musician] Jesse Malin's club -- great friend of ours -- and we're very excited to be here."

George Whipple: You have a little New York roots, don't you?

Smith: Yeah, I'm originally from Queens.

Bielanko: Queens.

Smith: Like Jesse as well.

Bielanko: This is like a home game, because it's Jesse's club and it feels good. Feels like friends.

Combining electric guitars and bagpipes, Marah is a perfect blend of American roots and rock 'n' roll.