John Lennon Imagined: His Beatles & Solo Years
Celebrated in Concert at the Sunrise Theatre, February 24th
WhyHunger’s “Artists Against Hunger & Poverty” Program To Benefit
When: Friday, February 24th, 2012 at 7pm
Where: Sunrise Theatre, 117 South Second Street, Fort Pierce, FL34950
Tickets: $25 advance/ $30 at the door, available at www.sunrisetheatre.com or 772-461-4775
Among the most unique and compelling interpretations of the late John Lennon’s music are those by The Nutopians, an eight-piece ensemble that will honor the genius and artistry of the icon’s song compositions at The Sunrise Theatre in Fort Pierce, FL. on Friday, February 24th.
Formerly The John Lennon Song Project, the band is celebrating its prestigious Independent Music Award for Best Tribute Album of 2010, an honor bestowed for its CD Imagined, just months after the band’s debut. The Nutopians are touring the U.S. throughout 2012.
The Nutopians, founded and led by Rex Fowler of Aztec Two-Step and Tom Dean of Devonsquare, are also celebrating the addition of its newest band member, 15-year-old “phenom” vocalist Maggie Coffin.
In a show that reviewers have called “magical,” “captivating” and “inspiring,” TheNutopians concertgoers are treated to exquisite lead singing, three-part harmonies and insightful song narratives, plus a host of multi-talented musicians on acoustic, electric and bass guitars; cello; violin; piano; mandola; accordion; chromatic harmonica and light percussion.
In concert The Nutopians perform their acclaimed renditions of many of Lennon’s most beloved Beatles songs, often weaving melody, lyric and song together in a series of singles and mini-medleys. These tunes are given surprisingly fresh treatments that often inspire a whole new appreciation for Lennon’s original lyrics. Selected songs from his solo years are also featured.
The band’s new name was suggested recently by Yoko Ono to honor Lennon’s social and political activism, and the couple’s fictitious country of peace, ”Nutopia.”
The group is also now actively supporting the “Artists Against Hunger & Poverty” program, which raises awareness and funds for WhyHunger, a leader in building the movement to end hunger and poverty by connecting people to nutritious, affordable food. A portion of proceeds from the ensemble’s performances and CD sales benefit WhyHunger’s grassroots effort to inspire self-reliance and community empowerment.
The Band: Rex Fowler — rhythm guitar and vocals; Tom Dean – six- and 12-string guitars, mandola and vocals; Alana MacDonald — violin and vocals; Jordan Jancz — cello and percussion; Teg Glendon — bass guitar and vocals; Robby Coffin — electric and acoustic guitars and vocals; Gary Schreiner — piano, accordion and chromatic harp; Maggie Coffin — vocals and percussion.
About the Founders of The Nutopians:
Rex Fowler is half of the critically acclaimed folk-rock duo Aztec Two-Step (ATS), which burst upon the scene with its self-titled debut album on Elektra Records in 1972. Fowler and his ATS partner Neal Shulman have continued writing and performing songs and releasing award-winning and well-reviewed albums for decades, including 1987’s Living in America (New York Music Award for Best Folk Album), 2005’s Days of Horses and others. Now in their 40th year of touring, the duo has spent a lifetime making meaningful music together. www.aztectwostep.com
For 30 years, Tom Dean was part of Devonsquare, with Alana MacDonald and the late Herb Ludwig. Signed to Atlantic Records by Ahmet Ertegun, Devonsquare toured the United States and Europe and released five CDs. A devoted fan base followed these musicians from coast to coast to hear the shimmering three-part harmonies and award-winning songs that earned them an international reputation. www.devonsquare.com
The Critics:
“With these intelligent heartfelt renditions of Lennon’s best-known songs, The Nutopians ranks right up there with the very best Lennon interpreters ever.” — Pete Fornatale, WFUV-FM
“Absolutely brilliant! I’ve been listening non-stop. I can’t wait to go on the radio and start spinning tunes from it. Album of the year!” — Ron Olesko, WFDU-FM
Website: www.thenutopians.com
Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXGfgmpqm5U (Come Together/I Am The Walrus)


















