The 5 o’clocks are Connecticut’s original super band. It’s not just a line. The band was originally started in 1983 by John Lamb and Jon Saxon. It has gone through many times and changes but the original intent is the same: Great musicians playing great music.
“It takes a super talent to create your own show,” said Lamb, who plays keyboards.
“Anyone can copy an arrangement off a recording – which is why there are so many bands that play that way. We create our own arrangements whenever possible. It’s more creative!”
The band plays lot of music you recognize – rock, pop, dance, R & B – and has some of best original music around. Charlie Karp knows a little about that. He’s been writing songs for everyone from Buddy Miles to Danny Kortchmar in his long career. He lends his legendary guitar playing (Them Changes, Down by the River) and rasping vocals (White Lines) to the group.
Vocalist Paula Gallo‘s own CD, The Paula G Reality, gets regular airplay on WPKN, in Bridgeport.
She has performed at hundreds of tri-state venues including the Samsung Experience in NYC and The Gathering of the Vibes music festival in Bridgeport, CT. Paula teaches private voice and piano lessons to students of all ages. Learn more at Studio 23 Music.
Fred Clark has a smooth clear style on guitar.
He has played in original Connecticut-based bands including Blind Justice and Cruise Control.
Drummer Jim Syarto of Milford, CT has been laying it down for years. He’s been playing with Lamb in bands since 2004 including KinkSlip, The Paula G Reality, and now The 5 O’clocks.
He brings a zaniness to the band. Frank Zappa is one of his favorite composers. He’s also a Mets fan so that pretty zany too.
The band has finished itβs new recording now β and has live recording on their new CD. In the meantime, the group continues moving ahead β with great musicians playing great music. The 5 O’Clocks – it’s about time.
Keyboard player and band co-founder John Lamb has had his music aired on more than 300 radio station across North America.
Band co-founder Jon Saxon has performed with bands from Larry Coryell to The Belmonts in a career spanning four decades.
Legendary Guitarist/Vocalist Charlie Karp was touring with Buddy Miles at age 16. He has performed with everyone from Keith Richards to Steven Tyler.
Paula Gallo performing at Fairfield Theater Company
Guitarist Fred Clark has played lead for bands including Blind Justice and Cruise Control
Drummer Jim Syarto of Milford used to gig with Art Carney’s son. He also raps in the band on occasion.