After spending most of the year writing songs, I went into More Sound Studio in Syracuse, NY to record the first demo/EP “Presents”. Two friends, Kevin Mahoney and Jeff Haschmann performed bass and drums respectively simply out of good will. A month after the recording, a first show was performed in a basement in Rochester, NY. “Presents” is self-released. The search for a full line-up began. Tim Williams, Thom Bulman, and Mike Schwartz enter.

2008

Soon after, BC Mostyn joins to replace Mike Schwartz on drums. Shortly after that, B.C. switches from drums to bass after Thom Bulman decides to leave, and Dave O’Connor joins on drums. Sakes Alive!! is approached by Barrett Records from Syracuse, NY to work together on a release. “Act I” is recorded in the Sakes Alive!! practice space, engineered by Jordan Nicometo. A small handful of shows are played. The band is accepted to play the Fest 7 in Gainesville, FL. B.C. quits right before the tour, so Josh Halliman fills in on bass for the tour. The band is approached by Cavity Records to release “Act II”.

2009

Sakes Alive!! decides to go “legit”. Full time touring ensues. Mike Schwartz rejoins on bass. Also, the band changes from a four piece to five. Corey Placito takes up rhythm guitar for a short period of time. A winter with No Idea’s Worn In Red. Graham Mitchell then steps in for Corey for an equally short stint on rhythm guitar. Finally, Kyle Kelley fills the shoes in time for the band’s summer tour. “Act II” is released on Cavity Records. Yet again, Sakes Alive!! is accepted to play the Fest 8 in Gainesville, FL. Fall tour down to the Fest played alongside the likes of Lords, Bridge and Tunnel, Nothington, amongst a slew of other great bands.

2010

After Dave O’Connor quitting at the end of 2009, the band’s fate was looking grim. Strained finances, relationships, and enthusiasm. I finally decided that it wasn’t worth continuing at the current pace if it wasn’t fun anymore. So after 6 months of digging out of the ruins, Sakes Alive!! is a solo project.