It’s ironic that rock innovator and Sugar Panda front man Thaddeus didn’t pick up an electric guitar until he was in his late teens. Considering that his musical journey started in fourth grade playing trumpet and organ, settling on the electric guitar doesn’t seem like a natural progression, but there was a turning point that explains the irony.
Thaddeus discovered guitar driven rock music during his high school years in Boston. Soon after while in college, his roommate pulled an electric guitar out of the closet – this was an instrument Thaddeus had placed up onto a proverbial pedestal.
“I always thought the guitar was this untouchable instrument,” Thaddeus said. “But then, as soon as my friend showed me a couple of songs, I was like, ‘Oh, that’s all they’re doing’ – it was a revelation.”
Thaddeus is the lead vocalist, songwriter, and lyricist for the indie rock band Sugar Panda. He is committed to writing original music that is thought provoking, with lyrics that reflect political, societal, and philosophical themes. Thaddeus plays an instrument that he invented and dubbed the “Bazunium.” Thaddeus sings, plays the Bazunium, and utilizes the capabilities of a special baritone electric guitar; all within the context of each song.
SINGER, SONGWRITER, INNOVATOR
Gohan Ruiz, 19, a Moorpark College business major, feels that Thaddeus is an exceptional artist.
“Thaddeus is very innovative; not only as a guitar player, but also as songwriter and a composer,” Ruiz said. “His music to me is the best elements of the progressive rock giants of the 1970s, like Pink Floyd and Rush, but with the raw energy that almost has hints of Nirvana-ness to it.”
Ben Killops, 22, a recent Moorpark College student, said that he appreciates the songs Thaddeus writes.
“All of his songs have great lyrics and definitely catchy melodies,” Killops said. “I love how unique the sound is, with the baritone guitar and the awesome Bazunium invention.”
Wes Cole, a professional film composer and artist, feels that Thaddeus writes music that often addresses societal concerns.
“Sugar Panda’s lyrics are a brave testament to the world we live in,” Cole said. “Sugar Panda’s music is truly one-of-a-kind.”
BARING THE SOUL
As for his future goals, Thaddeus wants to use music to help people.
“I like to give someone a sense of enlightenment that maybe they wouldn’t have had,” Thaddeus said. “I hope somebody would hear some of my lyrics someday, and it would inspire them, and just make their day a little better, and just make them say, ‘I can see that’s a better way of looking at life.’”
Sugar Panda will perform at the Arena Grill & Lounge in Simi Valley, on Sept. 22, 2017 at 9 P.M.
INDIE ROCK CONCERT IN SIMI
WHO: SUGAR PANDA
WHEN: Fri. Sept. 22, 2017 at 9 P.M.
NO COVER.
WHERE:
The Arena Grill and Lounge
999 Enchanted Way, Simi Valley, CA
FOR MORE INFO:
(805) 915-1528
Instagram @arenasimivalley
