| The Ugli Stick will bring their eclectic musical style to U.S. military bases in Southwest Asia, February - March. The Muscle Shoals, Alabama-based group blends reggae, funk, rock and roll and hip-hop to create a unique sound that defies easy categorization.
Formed in Mobile, Alabama in 2000, The Ugli Stick is made up of Eric Erdman, lead vocals and guitar; Dale Drinkard, lead guitar; Tim Stanton, drums; and Quintin Berry, bass. Today, the group calls Muscle Shoals, Alabama home, having been drawn to the town's legendary music scene. "The Muscle Shoals sound, made famous by artists like Aretha Franklin, Percy Sledge, the Rolling Stones, Wilson Pickett and even Paul Simon, is a blend of music that crosses cultures and genres," says Drinkard. "That's what The Ugli Stick's music is all about."
In 2001, the group released their first album "Beatdown" and its eclectic mix of songs reflected each member's desire for creative expression. This was followed in 2004 by "Stop Pease, Please Stop" and their most recent release, "Nostoi" in 2006. The group performs more than 200 shows a year and has gained a loyal following of fans from all walks of life.
"We are absolutely ecstatic to be going on tour for our troops," said Erdman. "We want to be able to go overseas and say 'thank you' to them for risking their lives so that we can enjoy the freedoms we do. And, we want to lift their spirits by entertaining them and bringing something from home that makes them happy."
"The Ugli Stick really connects with their audiences through their high-energy stage presence and their dynamic sound -- which spans a variety of musical genres," said Army Captain Trevor Garrett.
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Armed Forces Entertainment is the lead Department of Defense agency for providing entertainment to U.S. military personnel serving overseas, with priority given to those in contingency operations and at remote and isolated locations. The Department of the Air Force is the executive agent of Armed Forces Entertainment.
Founded in 1951, Armed Forces Entertainment brings a touch of home to more than 500,000 troops annually, embracing the best of Americana that stretches across all genres of entertainment. Visit www.armedforcesentertainment.com for more information.
To learn more about the UgliStick, visit www.theuglistick.com.
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