In a world offering more and more independent artists in an ever growing and more noticeable underground scene, we come across many bands worthy of our notice. Seldom, however, do we actually hear of bands coming directly from
the underground. The Two Man Gentlemen Band broke forth from out of the subways of New York to bring their clever 20’s and 30’s sound directly City into our hearts and minds.
The band’s name doesn’t simply use it as a catchy gimmick to draw crowds. They go the whole nine yards, acting and dressing the part of gentlemen from a generation known for three-piece suits, heavy drinking, and a swingin’ sound. Members of TMGB, Andy Bean and Fuller Condon (more commonly known as “the councilman”), learned early on in their busking days that in order to draw crowds, and keep their attention in a rapidly moving city (and to defend their territory from other buskers), they had to play fast, never stop, and to make the music catchy. Incorporating a banjo, bass, and two well-used kazoos (even distributing them to audiences in live shows), the Two Man Gentlemen Band makes sure feet are moving, hearts are thumping, and good times are being had by all.
A quick tempo and dapper looks aren’t all this duo is packing, though.  Laced throughout their songs are history and math lessons, love songs chock full of double entendre, or lessons on how to be a gentleman. “What do you do on the badminton court? SMACK THE BIRD!” Whether singing about former presidents, disasters such as the crash of the Hindenburg, or reveling listeners with stories of love, they’re sure to put a smile on your face and their songs on infinite repeat on your choice of .
These gents just last year released their fifth studio album, ¡Dos Amigos, Una Fiesta! (yes, they can sing in Spanish), and are currently on tour supporting its release. While still a small band gaining traction throughout the states and the UK, the Two Man Gentlemen Band has recently opened for such big names as Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson. Despite this, you can still catch them playing in office buildings and small bars across the country (they have stopped playing the subway and Central Park).
Why are these guys deemed worthy of artist of the week? Any band that can bring back an old sound, make it original and get you to dance your ass off and stomp your feet deserves its place in the spotlight. And given their minimal touring of the L.A. area, maybe with this appreciation they can give us kind folks a try. So what do you get? A raucous good time, and an act that you’ll be sure to return to time and again. If vaudeville made a comeback, the Two Man Gentlemen Band would certainly be at the head of the movement and headlining the bill. Until that time, you can follow the links below to listen in, order their music, and enjoy their comically written blog. This certainly is not a band that you want to pass up.