Innovative and dynamic instrumental guitar band the String Revolution features the talents of former Randy Rhoads student Janet Robin, Austrian nylon-string guitarist Markus Illko and Cuban multi-credited guitarist Rober Luis. They perform at Boulevard Music on Saturday, and Robin told the News about what they have in store for Culver City…
When did you start playing and performing?
I personally started quite young taking guitar lessons at age 6. Then at age 9 I studied electric guitar with the legendary Randy Rhoads. I started to play in neighborhood bands around 11 years old. At 17, I began professionally in an all girl rock band called Precious Metal. We were signed to 2 major record deals. That began my professional career which then led to stints on the road with artists such as Lindsey Buckingham, Meredith Brooks, Air Supply and many others as well as session playing and recording for film and tv. I also teach as well. Markus and Rober both started young as well in their respective countries and both went to school for music. They have played with numerous musicians as well as session work and recording for film and TV.
I started the band in 2015 to focus on guitar and using it more in a unique instrumental way. I wanted to create a “guitar band” that could emulate drums, bass, and even vocals -but by the guitar playing the main melody. We actually all met through ads in the L.A. area. I wanted to meet players I never met or played with before. New ones who were open to new ideas.
The band first consisted of 4 players. All of them from totally different backgrounds, not to mention countries. We originally had 2 Americans, one with a Latino background, and two Europeans. The String Revolution sound evolved through this first combination-concentrating on unique arrangements and bringing out different colors of each song. We decided to do covers early on as we all loved so many different styles of music. That became a signature for the band because people would recognize the songs, although they were done in a completely new way.
Two of the members left to pursue other personal interests in 2022 so that left myself and Markus Illko. We decided to continue but this time as a trio. Once again I reached out through ads looking for new players. That led us to Rober Luis, originally from Cuba, who had just moved to Los Angeles. He brought a whole new level to the band- not to mention a plethora of styles. Between Markus’ classical and jazz guitar background, Rober’s multi versed style, and my rock background, The String Revolution now had solidified our sound with even more detailed arrangements and new elements.
Both Markus and Rober have extremely educated musical backgrounds and have played with a multitude of musicians in their countries- Austria and Cuba, not to mention in the US as well. I think with all of our professional experience and dedication to the guitar, recording, and live concerts we have a strong work ethic- and that keeps The String Revolution moving forward.
Describe your sound…
Well as explained above, we have different influences from Latin, classical, to rock. Rober can play amazing Bluegrass as well which is quite unusual for someone from Cuba. Markus has a lot of composing and arranging experience from his education and having composed for film and tv.
I am a believer in bringing people from different backgrounds together for a band like this so that we can create something new, especially when it’s an all instrumental guitar band. That could get boring quickly. Or it could be endless noodling on the guitar. I think we always focus on what is best for the “song.” That’s important because people may come to see your virtuosity on an instrument, but you want them to leave the show whistling one of your songs!
What are your career highlights so far?
So many, especially lately. We are lucky…but we work hard so working hard brings luck. Having Steve Stevens (from Billy Idol) on our version of “Crazy Train” was absolutely amazing. We are all fans of his work so to have him grace one of our tracks was a highlight.
Then came along Tommy Emmanuel. To have him on our “Folsom Prison Blues” track was also amazing and a huge honor that even would consider playing on it. John Carter Cash produced this track and recording at Cash Cabin was a highlight and inspiration. Getting to use his Dad’s instruments on the song was also amazing. All of this leading up to winning the Grammy this year was obviously the biggest highlight yet.
Do you have recorded music available?
Yes, everything is on all the streaming platforms. We still sell a few CD’s through our website.
Have you performed at Boulevard Music before? Any memories?
Yes, many times and we enjoy that venue for its intimacy and focus on the musicians. Being surrounded by guitars doesn’t hurt either. And Gary is picky about who plays there. I like that he is selective and doesn’t just book someone because they might bring in a lot of people. He books people who he feels are talented, fit the bill at his venue and that his audience would enjoy.
What can the audience expect from the set this time?
Lot’s of fun guitar playing of course, but you’ll be whistling our songs on your way out. Also probably some funny banter back and forth between all of us.
What else do you have coming up?
We are working on new material. Arranging a new cover of course, but also some new originals we’re really excited about and we are working some music for video games as well, which is a new and exciting territory for us.
The String Revolution performs at 8 p.m. on Saturday, April 20 at Boulevard Music. Go to boulevardmusic.com for more information about the show.
Elsewhere this week
The Culver Hotel will be hosting the likes of Sylvia & the Rhythm Boys, and Scotty Bramer. Go to culverhotel.com for more info.
There’s a full program of music at the Cinema Bar this week, as usual. The Hot Club of Los Angeles plays every Monday, and Wednesdays are singer/songwriter and open mic night. Other artists performing this week include the Industry Plants, Black Sage Burn, Son of the Engineers and Talkin’ Treason,, and more. Go to thecinemabar.com for more info.
