Tuesday, August 26th, San Antonio Rock fans were graced by the presence of A&M Records' new recording artists, Fat. The thrashing, hip-hop, techno-punk sound of Fat resounded through the White Rabbit that night. Fat began with three boys from London (one a displaced American) who were willing to take a chance on their dream. It may sound like another familiar story setting from the early 60's, except that A.D. Rowntree, Gareth Prosser and Paul Andrews had no idea where their one-way tickets to New York, New York, U.S.A. would take them. "We were so nervous. I don't think we even had a drink on the plane," said guitarist Gareth Prosser. Rooted had the chance to talk to Rowntree, Prosser, Andrews and Fat's new addition, drummer Mike Boyko before their show at the Rabbit. "We really love the road, we sold out our first show in Arizona a few weeks ago. That was a rush," vocalist A.D. Rowntree commented humbly. When asked what Fat does when not playing, each member had their own idea of relaxing. Prosser said, "I like to go home and spend some time in the hills of Wales, with no phone and no telly, and just breath it all in." Mike Boyko does golf. (He previously aspired to be a pro golfer, so he checks out all the golf courses across the country when on the road.) "SLEEP!" said Rowntree, "and then I run around with my tail between my legs to catch up with the people who mean the most to me." Fat's unique sound arises from the diverse musical influences that the ban holds. When Fat was questioned about their style influences they alternately responded: "I take my hip-hop very seriously - definitely Chuck D.," said Rowntree. "My favorite influences are bands like the Clash..." added bassist Paul. "Lots of Rush" Prosser concluded. Rock on the Rise - Metal Edge Magazine (May 98) Don't let the conventional spelling of the name be misleading. Fat are one of music's best kept unconventional secrets. Blending a melodic surge of rock guitars and crunchy basslines that jump from the speakers like a juiced-up shot of jalapeno, the English trio - A.D. Roundtree (Amber, they spelled his name wrong) on vocals (he also recorded the drums on the album, but relinquished the kit with the addition of Mike Boyko, formerly of Scatterbrain), guitarist Gareth Prosser and bass player Paul Andrews - show far too much promise on their self-titled debut (DV8/A&M Records) to be clumped with the lot of today's homogenous new bands. From the energized romp of "Alright Already" to the red hot rave of current radio single "Numb", Fat cross-breed punchy pop-laced power chords with metallic authority and an invigorating accessibility reminiscent of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Fat is available in record stores nationwide, and can be reached via email at fat@wrentertainment.com.

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