Primary Instrument: Guitar, electric
Eclectic and expansive, Southwork are a seven-piece band of multi- instrumentalists from Philadelphia. Anchored by the songwriting acumen of vocalist/guitarist Mike Vivas, his compositions are rhythmically propelled by Mike Vogel (Keyboards, Backing Vocals, Kazoo), Nick Anastasi (Bass) and Joe Smith (Drums, Backing Vocals) and transported to another dimension by the hellacious horn trifecta of Al Smith (Baritone Sax, Backing Vocals, Percussion), Tony Trov (Tenor Sax, Percussion, Ukulele) and Erich Miller (Trumpet, Percussion).
Formed in July 2010, Southwork is the amalgamation of two previous groups. Vivas, Trov and Anastasi were in a band called Fat City Reprise while Vogel and brothers Al and Joe Smith (who are cousins with Vivas) played together in Distant Orange. Miller became lucky number seven after being plucked from a third band and the brazen framework of Southwork was solidified.
Their sound is heft personified. It’s deft dignified. It’s the musical version of π. Strap yourself in and get ready to fly.
“Sweet summertime sounds.” Philebrity
