From Good Homes returns to Newton Theatre
The history of rock ’n’ roll is filled with groups that broke up because of jealousy, acrimonious bitterness, and clashing personalities.
From Good Homes definitely does not belong in that number.
That was the assertion of Dan Myers, who played saxophone in the roots-rock group that formed in Sussex County more than 25 years.
“There was never any animosity in the band,” says Myers. “There was a clustering of events that made it difficult to continue from a business standpoint. But it was never about the people, and it was never about the music.”
So even after the break-up in 1999, the five members – Myers, multi-instrumentalist Jamie Coan, bassist Brady Rymer, drummer Patrick Fitzsimmons, and singer-guitarist Todd Sheaffer – remained in touch.
They played together at Myers’ wedding. Since 2009, they have reunited for shows in New Jersey. Their latest reunion will take place this weekend, Dec. 18 and 19, at the Newton Theatre in the seat of the county where they formed the band.
“It’s still really fun for us to play together, and that translates to the rest of the audience,” says Myers.
From Good Homes started with three high school friends: Sheaffer, Rymer, and Fitzsimmons. In the late 1980s, they were joined by Myers, and Coan arrived in 1990.
The group played a hybrid of country, rock, and blues with a touch of jazz. The eclectic approach was summed up in the title of their CD, “Hick-Pop Comin’ at Ya!”
“A lot of our songs came from just jamming,” says Myers. “I was studying jazz at NYU (New York University), so I came from that route. It all came together.”
Eventually, From Good Homes caught the attention of RCA. A record deal followed, resulting in a CD and the use of songs in movies.
However, the timing was unfortunate. In the late 1990s, record labels and artists were still trying to navigate the brave new world of the Internet and its impact on the music business. RCA dropped From Good Homes.
The band members decided to go their separate ways, after a farewell concert at Waterloo Village in August 1999. Fitzsimmons moved to Vermont and concentrated on a career as a singer-songwriter. Coan moved to the Carolinas to work on solo projects.
Sheaffer co-founded the bluegrass jam band Railroad Earth, which continues to tour. Rymer started the Little Band That Could and has earned two Grammy nominations in the field of family-friendly music.
Myers has become an in-demand session musician who also works as a producer and engineer. (Among his clients: Fitzsimmons and Rymer.)
All of these varied solo efforts have had a positive impact on the From Good Homes reunions, according to Myers.
“We all bring back individual musical experiences,” Myers says. “It makes for a more interesting thing. I’ve played with a lot of people, and that’s infused my playing.”
Some solo songs might work their way into the concerts, he added. “We’ve done some of Patrick’s stuff, and Brady usually comes in with something fun. Everybody has something special to offer.”
With the mutual respect and musicianship, a full-blown From Good Homes reunion with new music is not out of the question – but neither is it in the cards, at least for the time being, according to Myers.
“It’s something we talk about,” he says. “We’ve mentioned setting aside the time. But it’s difficult geographically. We’re lucky to find time to rehearse for these shows.”
Nonetheless, Myers says he and the other members of From Good Homes are grateful for the chance to reunite for an appreciative audience. “Any excuse together is great, and we’re glad to be able do it for the people who have always supported us.”
FROM GOOD HOMES
WHEN: 8 tonight and 8 p.m. Saturday
WHERE: Newton Theatre,
234 Spring St., Newton
TICKETS: $39 to $49
INFO: 973-383-3700 or
www.thenewtontheatre.com