Below is the text portion of an interview with Martin and Charlene Arsenault of Worcester Magazine
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Nov 23, - Nov 30 2005 • Volume 31, Number 10
Next Move calls itself “New England’s Premiere Groove-Oriented Band.” Playing a mix of R&B and soul, the cover band’s setlist includes a hefty helping of Steely Dan, Stevie Wonder, Sly and the Family Stone and Joe Jackson.
The band includes lead singer and percussionist Peter Ferraguto, who has been in bands such as Mocha Java, Whiskey River and presently The Anita Jones Band. Anthony “Tone” Caramadre is on bass, and also owns and operates Phattones Studio and Sound Co. in Warwick, Rhode Island. Guitarist Martin Stewart moved to the U.S. from Scotland in 2001, and has shared the stage with Bon Jovi and Shirley Lewis. Patrick Sanders pounds the drums. He’s gone to Berklee, and loves a heavy groove. And keyboardist Yukihide “Yuki” Tomari moved from Japan to the U.S. around the time Stewart was forming Next Move.
Stewart and Ferraguto also perform as the duo Aqustix, an offshoot that plays stripped-down versions of Next Move’s tunes. Aqustix plays Dec. 1 at the Victory Cigar Bar on Shrewsbury Street.
Ten questions for Martin Stewart, guitarist
How would you describe Next Move?
Next Move is an eclectic mix of musicians from different countries who love the music we play. We pour ourselves into it. Danceable, fun and musically challenging.
Who do you think is the greatest rock drummer of all time?
My vote would probably be for Vinnie Colaiuta. The reason being is that there is nothing this guy can’t play. His ability to polyrhythm demonstrates an unnatural talent. The guy is awesome.
What club owner has treated you the best?
Matt Dirvris at The Blackstone Tap. He pays the best and doesn’t police what we do.
What’s the closest “Spinal Tap” moment Next Move has experienced?
Speaking for myself that would be turning up at a the Sober In The Sun Festival with no control board for my equipment — Duhhhhh.
Who’s got the most interesting job in the band, and what is it?
Probably Yuki. He does biochemistry and molecular pharmacology research at UMass.
If Next Move could only eat one food until the end of time, what would it be?
For me that would probably be Aberdeen Angus beef stew with tatties [mashed potatoes] and savoy cabbage.
What’s the greatest cartoon?
That’s a tough one. For nostalgic reasons, I’d have to go for Bugs Bunny.
Who’s your musical idol?
This is very tough for me. Posthumously I’d have to say Frank Zappa, as he was such a brilliant composer. Currently I’d have to go for Bill Nelson. He is so extremely talented it’s not funny. Supremely talented but relatively unknown in the U.S.A., which is a crying shame.
Do you watch “American Idol”?
Yeah, I have to ’fess up to this. I like Simon, as he’s the only one who is realistic enough to tell it like it is.
Why should someone go to see Next Move, or your duo?
Primarily because you’ll see a great show. When we play it’s full throttle all the way. We don’t cut corners in any way. Also, we aim to deliver our sound in the most professional way possible. We all have top-notch equipment and know how to use it. If you just want to dance, that’s fine. We’ll lay down grooves for that. If you want great playing/musicianship then that’s there also — something for everyone. The acoustic duo has the same ethos. When you come see us you will hear two guys that sound like three or four guys playing.
Charlene Arsenault may be reached at charlenea@worcestermag.com.
