The Forefathers

The Forefathers had its origins in the solo work of guitarist Rich Marcil, in his debut CD, From The Edge, 2004. The seeds of the The Forefathers compositions were planted in these original songs arranged and composed by Rich Marcil.

In 2005, a ensemble was formed with Rich Marcil (guitar), Ross Jarrett (percussion/harmonica), Arturo Escamilia (drums), Thuan Nguyen (bass) and Jennifer Willsey (percussion). They reinterpreted and re-recorded Rich's original songs into the new band's self-titled debut CD, The Forefathers (2006).

In 2007, the quartet wrote and recorded their 2nd CD, Manataka. It was a tighter record with a clearer direction. And included original songs written by all members of the band. Jennifer Willsey departed shortly thereafter. A standout track, Mountain Rose, was featured on the public radio program Echoes in 2008.

In 2008, the band continued to refine their sound and started writing new material. They joined efforts with sound engineer, Francis. C. Baranyi, to create a personal recording studio and begin recording their next album.

In late 2008, Arturo Escamilia departed from the band, and Curtis Michelson joined the band as drummer. The band scrapped the original recordings so far and started over. In their new recording process, they also utilized the voice talents of Vala Rhea, and multi-instrumentalist Jeremy Birdsall. It also marked the beginning of cooperative joint ventures with dance troupe, Emotions Dance Company.

In 2010, The Forefathers released their 3rd and latest CD, Aurora. They held their album release party at the renowned venue, Timucua. Dancers from Emotions Dance Co. and vocalist Vala Rhea joined them for a special performance.

In 2011, The Forefathers welcome multi-instrumentalist, Russell Gaspard, to the line-up and began writing and recording new material. Incorporating synthesizers, viola and classical guitar to the mix.

After a long hiatus, they released their fourth studio full-length album, Full Circle, in 2016. They welcomed new members, Alex Katsaros, on percussion and Rick Lucchessi, as multi-instrumentalist. With this lineup, they began to write and record new compositions.

Unfortunately, the 2020 pandemic meant a long hiatus and the departure of Rick Luchessi. David Oltman joined as drummer.