Marcus Rezak

Electronic Press Kit

MARCUS REZAK BAND * SHRED IS DEAD * GUMBO * PHRANK

Marcus Rezak is an eminent force in the world of modern guitar. He is known as a road warrior, playing over 200 headlining shows throughout the US every year, and for his prowess as a bandleader, fronting a bountiful roster of projects ranging from original compositions to his high-octane Grateful Dead tribute Band Shred is Dead and the recently established Gumbo paying homage to Phish’s 1.0 era on an authentic 90s rig on Languedoc Guitars and coveted gear used by Trey Anastasio during the band’s formative years.

The culmination of accolades has found him collaborating with the likes of GRAMMY- award-winning producer Paul Nelson (Johnny Winter, Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy); Kris Myers (Umphrey’s McGee), Joel Cummins (Umphrey’s McGee), Ike Willis (Frank Zappa), Arthur Barrow (Frank Zappa); Erik Lawrence (Little Feat); and countless others.

Having a commanding stage presence, Rezak takes the euphoric freedom of live music and directs its path into a unique approach with sensibilities of taking comprehensive mental notes on what works, what to improve, and fostering an environment for all collaborators to exceed their full potential in any configuration with any lineup.

This innate skill set has led him to form once-in-a-lifetime super groups such as a Friendsgiving Performance at the legendary Troubadour in West Hollywood, CA that featured Robby Krieger (The Doors), Felix Pastorius (Hipster Assasins), Scott Page (Pink Floyd), and many more; leading project of his own through several tours throughout the US Virgin Islands; and curating official after- parties for Umphrey’s McGee, Phish, and more.

Marcus has earned music degrees from Berklee College of Music B.M 2006, and Masters Degree in Jazz Composition from DePaul University M.M. 2012.

Shred is Dead is progressive instrumental and vocal performances of The Grateful Dead & Jerry Garcia Band, harvesting a pure blend of inspirational jams and fierce rock n roll. Led by guitarist Marcus Rezak with an all-star group of musicians from across the universe.

For Phans who yearn for 90s-style Phish shows and jams, Gumbo fulfills their nostalgic craving. Fronted by Marcus Rezak, the project recreates memorable shows from the 1.0 era in their entirety bolstered by a rotating cast of top-tier musicians who share Rezak’s fervor for the pivotal era in the band’s history. The inspiration began at The Rosemont Horizon on 10/3/99 when Rezak saw his first Phish show. That was the catalyst to see hundreds of subsequent shows as the budding guitarist absorbed the true essence of the band’s improvisational style and Trey Anastasio’s masterful guitar playing, singing, and songwriting. Rezak travels with the authentic 90s rig featuring a genuine G2 Paul Languedoc guitar, Mesa Boogie Mark 3 Amplifier, original spec Languedoc Cabinets, and 90s pedalboard layout. Coupled with his studies as an alumnus of prestigious music programs at Berklee and DePaul Universities, Rezak possesses an unmatched insight into presenting the music of Phish by covering pivotal shows by the band to a T transcending the typical tribute band experience. Gumbo strives to recreate this special 1.0 era of Phish concerts, which only exist in time capsules of cassette tapes, CDs, and memories, giving Phans back that feeling from the 90s.

UPCOMING SHOWS

Featured Reviews

“Marcus is a force to be reckoned with... A born guitarist songwriter and vocalist, it was a real pleasure to produce his latest album which I feel showcases his diversity and amazing talent.”— Paul Nelson
“Marcus kills it, shreds it, and has it for breakfast with a side of nails.”— Arthur Barrow (Frank Zappa's Band)
“I love the energy and focus in these cuts. It was a pleasure to play on, five-star cast for sure! Marcus is tearing it up! Solid!”— Ray Paczkowski, keyboards (Trey Anastasio Band)
“Recording with Marcus for his new album Truth in Sound, felt like we had been playing together for years; cool songs with deep grooves, just the way I like it.”— Russ Lawton, drums (Trey Anastasio Band)