UNCOVERED: Cryin’ Out Loud

Written by Mike Shudt

Party bands, wedding bands, horn bands – call them what you want – the Albany area has always been blessed with a plethora of good ones. These bands can be seen performing across the Capital District at bars and clubs as well as at private events and public festivals. One such band is celebrating 20 years as an active group in 2019 – meet Cryin’ Out Loud!

Led by Gregg Simmons who serves as lead vocalist and trombone player, Cryin’ Out Loud is one of the most sought after party bands in the area. Immediately upon speaking with Gregg you can sense his enthusiasm for what he does. Gregg credits The Refrigerators and Burners U.K. with developing the recipe for success that the areas party bands currently use and says that he has built and developed a, “Cryin’ Out Loud sound” from there. One of the things that set Cryin’ Out Loud apart in its infancy was having a female singer – something that is commonplace in the industry today.

When asked to describe his criteria for selecting new material Simmons says that he’s always trying to challenge himself and the band musically and maximize the, “wow” factor for their live audiences. Gregg says that many of the current hits are difficult to cover but that the band has utilized samplers and backing tracks recently with great success.
A large percentage of Cryin’ Out Loud’s gigs are weddings and it’s easy to see why. Gregg just comes across as a guy you’d trust to handle everything and as someone that will be fun to work with. These qualities have, no doubt, contributed to Cryin’ Out Loud’s long run of success in the wedding industry during which the band has infused it’s weddings with the same high energy dance music that you’ll see them perform at the areas top bars and clubs.

Gregg consistently praises the members of Cryin’ Out Loud and credits the chemistry within the band as one of the main reasons for their longevity. It’s very clear that there is a mutual trust and respect amongst Gregg and the rest of the members. Simmons is clearly confident in his fellow musician’s abilities and is very thankful for the confidence that they have in him to lead the band. Be sure to check out Cryin’ Out Loud at any of their public performances throughout the year and definitely check in with Gregg and crew if/when you’re planning your special event or wedding!

Cryin’ Out Loud’s current roster is as follows: Joe “The Hitman” Gaetano (trumpet) – 20 years, “Super” Dave Laurey (saxophone) – 20 years, Gregg Simmons (vocals, trombone) – 20 years, Jimmy “The Irish Assassin” Mahoney (guitar) – 12 years, Brian “Cornbread” Thornton (drums) – 8 years, Timothy Keenan (bass) – 7 years, John Costello (keys) – 5 years, and Danielle Fortunato (vocals) – 4 years. Keep up to date on Cryin’ Out Loud on Facebook and at www.cryinoutloudlive.com.
Mike Shudt is a veteran of the local music scene and can currently be seen performing as the bass player in WYLDER-518 and Bad Apple.