The Story of Backwards Hats
The story of Backwards Hats is a simple one: A family band, plus one (who’s become family) jamming on songs that make them happy. Jerry and Livi Arnold, along with Livi’s son, guitarist Chris Isaacs, have always played in the music room at home - Livi on vocals, Jerry on banjo and the three of them making beautiful harmonies. Add the most seasoned of bass players, McGregor ‘Mac' McGehee, and a good vibe was born of great music and the will to entertain while enjoying the ride.
After the band chose great songs that might be under (way under) a lot of peoples’ radar, recording at Club 39 with producer Bill Smith helped bring some musical things into focus - most importantly, crafting them into something wholly and beautifully Backwards Hats. The recordings are an amazing experience on their own - but come out to a show and hear songs you may already know in an entirely different way. Experience the joy of LIVE folk/rock/Americana music with people who love performing. Local event dates have grown exponentially, and so has the desire to put the music ‘out there’ for folks to watch, stream, buy, and download. Opportunities to experience the sights and sounds that are ‘The Hats’ abound on Soundcloud, Vimeo and on CDs.
The Band
Chris Isaacs | Guitar & Vocals
Singer/songwriter Chris Isaacs has been called a guitar prodigy by more than one teacher, producer, and listener. (And since he’s not in charge of writing this, we’re saying it again.) His talent and pure guitar playing spirit across musical generations from classic folk to the Grateful Dead, James Taylor, and John Mayer continue to drive Backwards Hats to new heights of musicality.
Livi Arnold | Vocals
Livi sings her heart out. Her main role is to find the harmonies. She loves harmony, so that’s what she pursues in every song Backwards Hats chooses. Sometimes she adds percussion. Livi is an accomplished pianist and taught piano for many years. After years of lugging a heavy Wurlitzer to gigs in the 70s she said in this band – NO keyboard.
Jerry Arnold | Banjo & Vocals
After a long career as a business consultant in the world of finance, Jerry Arnold cornered the global market for banjos. Part of that sentence is true, which part is up to your imagination. Jerry sings, plays clawhammer banjo, and is chief transport officer, head cheerleader, and consummate encourager of challenging songs for the band. When not arranging microphones (or music) Jerry is a part of the local musical theater and cabaret scene in Dover, MA.
McGregor McGehee | Bass & Vocals
Professional bass player and roadhouse desperado, McGregor McGehee, brings the experience and idealism of folk-rock and rock & roll that Backwards Hats infuses into every performance. From bowing or plucking just the right notes on the upright bass to driving the backbeat on electric bass, Mac keeps the rhythm and the spirit of the band charging forward. Every note is made with love.