Meet Philadelphia’s Own Beards & Whiskey

Meet Philadelphia's own Beards & Whiskey, MMR's Local Shots Artist of the Month.

Beards & Whiskey is an independent 4-piece rock band from the greater Philadelphia area founded in 2014. The music could be categorized under many different rock sub-genres as it pulls inspiration from influences that range from 70's metal, 80's blues rock, 90's grunge, 2000's nu metal, alternative metal, alternative rock, and post-grunge. The band has been recording its sophomore album with producer Derek Salazar. The new songs are leaving the debut album's southern rock sound behind and leaning into hard rock influences.

This is Beards & Whiskey:

Lead Guitar/Backing Vocals- Ryan McManimon

Bass/Backing Vocals- Jon Kalish

Drums- Keith Schanbacher

Lead Vocals/Rhythm Guitar- Rick Stabeno

The band released a new single last month called "Flashback." The song is about PTSD from the perspective of an OEF Marine Corps Veteran. Rick Stabeno (Lead Vocals/Rhythm Guitar) wrote it after reading a journal of his that he found from Afghanistan the day before going to speak with the VA. The words felt like they jumped off of the pages and took him right back to each event instantly.

This is a great band with so much to offer the Philadelphia music scene! We can't wait to see what they do next.

"Flashback" features an energetic and really powerful instrumental line. The vocal performance is very strong and emotional with an aggressive pitch. Deep bass notes grab the listener's attention from the first seconds. And emotional vocals penetrate right into the listener's heart.

There is a veracity to "The Prey." The emboldened riffs add to its boldness. The singer who can throw his weight around with equal abandonment. It's an energetic and well-made tune! With a great mix and groove.