Reese Van Riper

Inside a defunct hay barn on the outskirts of Crawford County Pennsylvania the stale aroma of rotting wood is subdued by the overwhelming stench of guano. This place where once an old family mill was based upon has now become a congregation for nocturnal scavengers. For some stepping into such a place would shoot chills up ones spine. However Reese Van Riper says it's the only place in the world where he can truly think in silence. Here is where Reese found revelation and began his own march of progress. 2011 saw many changes for Reese Van Riper. Not only by adding two members/friends to enhance the artistic vision of the band but also touring extensively for the first time nationwide as a full band. The trio didn't just cover 3,000 miles in March on their "Wise & Cool 2011" tour, where they headlined at the 12 Annual Texas Rockfest in Austin, TX. They also covered over 6,000 miles in 15 days this past July on their "Ghost Oil Tour 2011". They continue to set the benchmark for independently run, funded, and organized bands as they steamrolled through a week long tour covering another 5,000 miles with their "Week Long Bender 2011" tour. In 2012 Reese Van Riper again head into the studio this time with Producer John Ferrarra (Trophy Scars) at Portrait Recording Studios and recorded "Ghost Oil Revival" which contained fan favorites such as "Hoodoo Rising" "Lucy" & "Love Is A Cure". Instead of extensive touring around the country the band focused on playing local shows establishing a strong and dedicated fan base in their home state of New Jersey. The four piece consists of bassist Paul Beier, drummer Greg Infante (ex-The Murder & The Harlot), lead guitarist Andrew Lange, and Papa Reese himself. The four having grown up with each other have an undeniable chemistry on and off the stage. When the band takes the stage Papa Reese stands a towering 6'7" and automatically commands the audience with his presence alone. As the guys feed off their energy, the crowd becomes a sea of electricity and like a wave just about to crest the momentum crashes upon them. Taking all of those factors into mind is what makes Reese Van Riper an on stage powerhouse. Jersey Swamp Rock