Robert "Bob" Nastanovich (born August 27, 1967 in Rochester, New York) is a member of the indie rock band, Pavement, as well as former member of 1990s bands Ectoslavia, and Pale Horse Riders. He has also played percussion for Silver Jews since 1994.[1]
Meeting Pavement's leading man Stephen Malkmus and future Silver Jews leader David Berman at the University of Virginia, the three subsequently moved to Jersey City, NJ, living and working together at various jobs in art galleries (as security guards) and Nastanovich was a bus driver/bus terminal manager in New York City and Hoboken. It was during this period that Malkmus re-united with long time friend Scott Kannberg to create the first (then unofficial) Pavement album Slanted and Enchanted in drummer Gary Young's makeshift home studio. It is during this time also that the seeds for the future Silver Jews (Nastanovich, Malkmus and Berman) were planted.
Nastanovich, upon his introduction to the band in 1990, performed many functions in the band, namely adding backing vocals, percussion, harmonica, and effects based keyboard. Initially, his key role was that of assistant time keeper, effectively focusing the efforts of the distracted and eccentric Young. Nastanovich was Pavement's representative in the dismissal of his friend Young (he had been the best man at his wedding). Nastanovich remained a member of the band after Young left, although Steve West became the new drummer.
Nastanovich sang lead vocals on live performances of the songs 'Debris Slide' and 'Conduit for Sale.' He was known for his stage presence and his trademark scream.
Nastanovich is an avid fan of thoroughbred horse racing, both owning, breeding and managing many horses in his current home of Des Moines, Iowa. He served as jockey agent for Greta Kuntzweiler and Joe Johnson. Nastanovich married Whitney Grey Courtney on February 21, 2009.
Bob also played drums on several Silver Jews albums (recently contributing to the Tanglewood Numbers record and tour), has tour managed Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks and he managed the first Silver Jews U.S tour of 2006. In addition, he has played on recordings by Palace Brothers and the Tall Dwarfs. He is currently employed as a chart caller for Equibase, America's official Horse Racing database, and works at Prairie Meadows in Altoona, Iowa.
Bob rejoined Pavement for their worldwide 'Reunion' tour in 2010.
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