The ‘Scapes are a four-piece Americana rock band from the quaint, yet musically fertile hills of East Tennessee. Formed in late 2006, The ‘Scapes feature the songwriting of singer, Ben Jones, who had already been gaining regional attention with his 2005 release, Viewfinder, an album of songs about searching for meaning as a twenty-something in post modern America. The sound of that record has been described as a “pleasant cross between Son Volt and Ray Davies of the Kinks” by respected North Carolina blues musician Jon Shain.The ‘Scapes represent a further development of that sound due to the presence of a classically trained pianist and an electric guitar virtuoso who has no preconceived notion of what Americana music “should” sound like.The band is releasing a new record, Refrigerator Magnets, this fall. This release features thought provoking songs such as “What America Sold,” which deals with unwittingly buying into the American dream, and “Now”, which urges the listener to wake up to his/her surroundings, as well as less serious rockers like “The Days When You Were Mine”, a taunting open letter to an ex-girlfriend. Already playing shows regionally, The ‘Scapes plan to tour extensively with the new album.The musical background of each member contributes to the deceptively eclectic sound of The ‘Scapes. Ben played banjo in the bluegrass influenced group Uncle Boogie, which also included Sam Quinn of the Everybodyfields. Amy Gugliotta, an incredible piano and accordion player, has a Masters degree in music performance, and has even performed at Carnegie Hall in New York, accompanying a choir there. Brandon Queen has played guitar in Ska and Rock bands in the past. W. Andrew Gibbens plays drums with an expressive, conversational approach and has added his talents to recordings by such artists as Listener. All four members sing, adding the element of vocal harmony to the sound when called for. The ‘Scapes are a group first and foremost. Proving time and again the idea that the whole is better than the sum of its parts, The ‘Scapes share a love for each other and a respect for each other’s musical input. Considering everyone’s background, that usually isn’t a difficult task.If you like your music with depth and honesty, listen with care.For more information, contact The ‘Scapes at (423) 773-4006, e-mail unclebenjaminjones@yahoo.com, or visit them on the web at www.scapesmusic.com.