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A master of subterfuge and persuasion, Derek "dB" Brinson (vox, guitar, keys, programming) has enjoyed beverages with Thomas Dolby and Bootsy Collins, although not simultaneously. An affable and engaging musician, dB is part frontman, part court jester and all bad-ass. He's been indicted but never convicted.

Brazilian police once detained Theo Boomhaver (drums, percussion, sequencer, programming) while he waited to board a plane at Jobim International Airport in Rio de Janeiro. At the time he was touring with Faith No More. Theo highly recommends the Roppongi district of Tokyo for all your entertainment needs. He plays GMS drums and Zildjian cymbals.

Donald "Fammon" McDonald (trumpet, vox, programming) may be the most engaging member of the band. He was once engaged to three different women simultaneously. It's amazing he still goes by his real name. Donald lists Maynard Ferguson and Freddie Hubbard among his many influences. He is a veteran of an elite military unit. He could tell you more, but he'd have to kill you if he did.

Thomas "Ski" Szypulski (bass, keys, programming) reached No. 4 on the French Pop charts in 1998 and garnered airplay on six of the seven continents. A skilled surfer who's shrugged off a shark bite and lousy waves, Ski fondly recalls his most recent visit to Jamaica. He recommends Newcastle Brown Ale and Guinness Stout.

dB and Ski first discussed a musical collaboration in 1998 while involved in Power Pop trios The Estranged and Leaning Owen. In 2000, Theo and Ski co-founded the Reggae party band Dread34. dB soon joined on keys and vocals. Donald joined as trumpeteer. Throughout the lifetime of Dread34 and into the early days of Blue Marble Beat, dB played with his Acoustic Soul collective cleverly masquerading as a band, the-nerve. Through the years we've endured identity crises, economic and legal crises, wars, plague, famine and pestilence to become locally renowned performers, scenesters, in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill Triangle. All of our influences and experiences meld into Blue Marble Beat's unique vibe.

Photos by Kurt Schlatzer, Rich Cox, Andy Garber and Ravi Lalka