Sparrows Gate
Cut from the same cord as John Steinbeck's desolate western landscapes and the humble optimism of his characters' hearts, Zebedee Zaitz writes lyrics that are the deep reflection of small town California. His songs flow like a breeze rustling dry eucalyptus leaves during the warm night. In 2003, Sparrows Gate formed as a rock n’ roll band of Zaitz and a rotating lineup of friends. In 2007, Zeb put Sparrows Gate on hold to tour full time with Oakland's Port O'Brien. During this time, Zeb and Port O'Brien drummer Josh Barnhart started playing Sparrows Gate songs, occasionally opening POB gigs in the US and Europe. More songs were written, and Sparrows Gate's permanent lineup formed.
Sparrows Gate is a series of relationships; The guitar and bass rhythm is a product of the brothers' Zeb and Anthony Zaitz relationship and their Florida upbringing. The call and response of the southern guitar licks weave with the range of Joel Tolbert's organ and slide guitar. Tolbert's music is a part of his blood, as three generations have tended to the land and the musical spirit of America's southwest. Drummer Josh Barnhart's steady rhythm, crescendo and fill alternate with melodic vocal harmonies, reflecting the values of an artistic family. Sparrows Gate is a group of musicians linked by the common experience of families heading west early last century to a land of promises and new beginnings.
