Pilfers

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Pilfers formed in 1997, when former Toasters vocalist, Coolie Ranx joined with former Bim Skala Bim trombonist, Vinny Nobile. To complete the lineup, they recruited the Skinnerbox rhythym section of Anna Milat-Meyer, on bass and James Blanck, on drums, as well as guitar player, Nick Bacon, of The Erratics.

The band released one demo tape and played many New York area shows, before self releasing their debut, self-titled album, in 1998. Response was positive enough, that the band was signed to Mojo Records, and they released Chawalaleng, one year later.

Soon after their major label debut, Anna Milat-Meyer and James Blanck, left the group. Anna Milat-Meyer took a position, playing bass, in Latin Jazz band, Los Mas Valientes. Carl Barc, of the band Ever Since Day One, took over on bass and Dave Karcich, formerly of Spring Heeled Jack USA, took over on drums. The band continued to tour, and build a strong fanbase. The band recorded a live show at CBGB's, intending for it to be released on CD. The album would never see release though, since the band split up in 2001.

Soon after the breakup Coolie Ranx started a solo career, recording and playing shows around the world with back up band Fear Nuttin' Band. Nick Bacon joined Lost City Angels, who were looking for a second guitarist. Nobile, Barc and Karcich, joined with Spring Heeled Jack USA guitarist, Mike Pellegrino to perform as Cenzo, for a World Trade Center benefit show in 2001. Karcich also took the drum position in Avoid One Thing, a band fronted by former Mighty Mighty Bosstones bass player, Joe Gittleman.

Sadly, Karcich suffered a sudden brain aneurysm and passed away, in April 2002. Eight months later, a tribute show was held at Toad's Place, in honor of Karcich. During a performance by Cenzo, Nobile and Barc welcomed Coolie Ranx and Nick Bacon onstage for a brief reunion of Pilfers.

In November 2005, the original five members of Pilfers, reunited at the Knitting Factory, in New York for a sold-out show. It remains to be seen if the band will continue playing together. In the meantime, Coolie Ranx continues with his solo career as Vinny Nobile continues with Cenzo. Nick Bacon has since quit Lost City Angels to focus on an acting career. He made his film debut in the 2007 Drew Barrymore and Hugh Grant film, Music and Lyrics.

According to readjunk.com and knittingfactory.com, The Pilfers will be playing the Three Floors of Ska at the Knitting Factory in New York City on Sunday, May 6, 2007.

[edit] Band Members

  • Coolie Ranx - Lead Vocals
  • Vinny Nobile - Trombone and Vocals
  • Nick Bacon - Guitar and Backing Vocals
  • Anna Milat-Meyer - Bass Guitar
  • James Blanck - Drums
  • Dave Karcich - Drums
  • Carl Barc - Bass

[edit] Recording History

  • Pilfers demo
    • released on cassette in 1997
    • only available at live shows
  • Pilfers
    • released 1/1/1998
    • 20,000 copies sold
    • only available from their website and at live shows
  • Chawalaleng
    • released 9/21/1999 on Mojo Records