Back in college Josh had a girlfriend. I know! He couldn’t believe it himself. Anyway, said GF overheard a conversation he was having with his brother in where else, a bar. This conversation was about wanting to get a guitar and learn how to play. So she bought him one. Josh also had a friend who said” If you bring over beer, I’ll teach you how to play.” Josh did and started playin’ Bob Dylan songs. Constantly…Because they got sick of hearing them someone suggested he try writing his own…He did…

Fast forward to July 2006, when Josh met guitarist Dave Bernroth, who had just returned to New Jersey after a stretch as a singer/songwriter in Austin, TX. Dave and Josh decided to collaborate and SHM the acoustic project was born. Josh and Dave started hitting up various open mics and playing in quite a few Acoustic Philly showcases, including AP festival number at the Rotunda in Phila.

After playin’ too many acoustic gigs to count Dave and Josh decided it was time to step it up and form a full electric project. A drummer and bass player were added and SHM made its electric band debut at Connies’ Ric Rac in February ’07. As personnel changes were made over the years Dave and Josh remained the core of the band. They continue to collaborate both lyrically and musically.

In Feb. of ’09 Scott MacNeill was recruited to play bass. After playin’ in numerous punk bands in New Orleans, Scott returned to PA to attend school and decided to lend his considerable bass talents to SHM. He loves spaghetti and that song by George Harrison at the end of Time Bandits….

Drummer Benny Corbett was recruited in March of ’09. Having just left the great city of Manhattan, Benny came to Philly to settle down. Benny has played with numerous bands in the NYC area. His drumming superbly compliments SHM’s twangy style.

Vocalist Jessica Renk grew up singing musical theatre, and used to sing to the mice in a genetics lab.  They never applauded, so in May ’09 she joined SHM.

The band has a primarily roots rock, Americana sound but also delves into alt. country, reggae, pop and folk. They have influences as diverse as Cowboy Junkies, The Ramones, Leo Kottke, and Dylan. The band plays Martin acoustic guitars, custom made electric guitars, Fender bass, and Pearl drums. They will be playin’ various clubs and festivals all summer and into the future. Catch them whenever and wherever you can…