About Us 

Fiesta Brava is an indie rock band based in Northampton, Massachusetts.

 

The band consists of Chris Rea, Ray Keane, Jeff Steblea and Matt Snow.  Formed in 2008, the band released their first EP that summer, titled Ship to Shore.  They have shared the stage with Matt Pond PA, Wye Oak, Wintersleep, Spouse, Haunt, Swillmerchants and School for the Dead, among others.

 Fiesta Brava mines a particular sound half born of folk, and half born of punk, which results in a warm, dramatic form of what people are calling "indie rock" these days. 

  

Fiest Brava is interested in literate and emotive pop music, marrying tuneful melodies with cathartic and insightful lyrics. The band's sound ranges from hushed songs featuring banjo and almost-whispered vocals, to driving rhythms with mounting guitar freakouts. 

 

The vocal harmonies of Chris and Ray are both effortless and engaging, and the band's arrangements ensure a dynamic and dramatic performance.  

"I think it's pretty bizarre that this band would likely not exist if I didn't have to borrow some books on Elizabethan England from Ray's wife, Mary, who was in a course on Shakespeare with me at WNEC.  During my short visit to their apartment, I was impressed by the number of show posters on the walls for bands I love.  I think there was a Wilco poster, Iron and Wine, Radiohead or Modest Mouse.  Also, Ray's office was like a clone of my own, complete with guitars on stands, a keyboard, and the same exact Behringer mic for recording.  I told Mary that we should set up a double date sometime soon, as I clearly would get along well with her husband.  After that dinner date, Ray and I reluctantly participated in what we believed would be yet another awkward jam session with another guitar player.  But, instead we had some fun collaborating on some original parts and harmonies.  It was a rare moment; these things are often just uncomfortable, boring, or an opportunity for someone to show off their chops.  I'm glad we gave it a shot- that night's success would eventually lead to Fiesta Brava."  - Chris

"I think we’re strange and unique in the way that your next-door neighbor is strange and unique, which is to say, in ways that are not obvious or immediately apparent.  As a band, Fiesta Brava’s strength is that we’re not about flash or virtuoso playing or larger-than-life personalities—that stuff can be great, but it would feel disingenuous for us.  It would be a poor fit.  This band really focuses on emotion and songcraft, and performing something on stage that feels true and comfortable for us."  - Jeff

"When we formed, we were motivated to start playing shows and put out an EP immediately.  In a relatively short time, we've accomplished several of our goals, sharing the stage with some of our favorite bands, bands who are real influences and inspirations.  Most importantly, we're having a great time." - Ray

"I texted my friend.  I wrote 'Sorry man, the band can't make it to the knife fight, we have to practice.  I can go, as long as I get back home before 4:15.  About 5 minutes later I get a text back -- 'wrong number, dude." - Matt