Beach band to make return

Raleigh, North Carolina-based beach band The Embers will perform its annual concert at Pantana Bob’s in Greenville tomorrow night at 11.

The group has appeared live in concert with artists such as the Rolling Stones, The Temptations and The Beach Boys, and have performed at President Bill Clinton’s inauguration and the Atlanta Olympics in 1996. Recently, the band was inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame.

The style of The Embers has been described as “Carolina beach music,” a fusion of pop, rock and R&B. The group has managed to blend these concepts to a wide audience while playing songs both old and new, creating a strong appeal that has transcended generations.

For three members, Craig Woolard, Stephen Paschuta and Jeff Grimes, the annual concert at Pantana Bob’s is more than just a part of their job; it’s a sort of homecoming.

Lead vocalist Craig Woolard grew up in nearby Washington and described his experiences playing in Greenville as a great scene to be apart of.

“I grew up in Washington, so to us, Greenville was like Chicago. I love playing in Greenville. Whenever we’re there, downtown is just as packed as it was when I was a kid. It’s just a great scene,” Woolard said.

Woolard also described the typical concert experience for The Embers and what makes it so special.

“I see people who start singing along to their favorite song and jamming out. It’s a real good time and a good experience with the audience,” Woolard said.

With such nostalgic appeal in their music, the band’s concerts draw crowds both young and old, and creates a relaxed atmosphere and gives the audience a chance to relive the days gone by.

Trumpeter Stephen Paschuta commented on the youth presence at Embers concerts and what it means for the band.

“It’s crazy to see 18, 19, 21 year olds singing along to most of the songs we play, which are from the 60s and 70s. They’re a great crowd and we have a blast. They’re appreciative and we love it,” Paschuta said.

For Paschuta, a former East Carolina University School of Music Student, the return to Greenville also means a return to his old stomping grounds.

“I went back to ECU back in 1997 and I played there as a kid. I had my first senior moment last year when I realized most of the people there were in diapers at the time. It’s absolutely great to come back. I lived there for 13 years, and I wish we were able to do it more,” Paschuta said.

Paschuta is the youngest member of The Embers, joining the group in 2005. Commenting on the future, he referred to the group as an “institution,” and said that as long as the demand for live music is high, there will “always be an Embers.”

Guitarist Jeff Grimes also attended ECU as a music major and he shared in the excitement for the upcoming show.

“I grew up partying on Fifth Street and Cotanche. I’ve always had a love for Greenville. Back when I was there, there were five clubs and they all had a live band every night,” Grimes said.

Grimes has made his living as a musician for over four decades, and his experience added to his explanation of why The Embers has maintained such a generational appeal after 61 years.

“It’s just a matter of personal taste. You have an affinity for the music of your own generation. Good music spans the generations, that’s why we have so many college age kids that like our stuff,” Grimes said.

He also offered his thoughts on how the group continues to perform on a consistent basis, citing their passion for music.

“Being a musician is something that calls on your body and your intellect. It’s a calling, not a job,” Grimes said.

More information about The Embers and its music can be found on its website at https://theembersband.net