by: Anthony Violanti, page: G30
10,000 Maniacs is primed for new success. The famed Jamestown band has been working and writing for the past two years since lead singer Natalie Merchant departed. Now the current Maniacs -- Dennis Drew, Steve Gustafson, Jerry Augustyniak, Rob Buck, Mary Ramsey and John Lombardo -- are gearing up for a return to the national spotlight.
"We needed some time off to sort things out and play together, and now the time is right to make a record," Drew said. The Maniacs recently signed a deal with Geffen Records, and hope to release an album later this year. The band is looking for a producer and should be in the studio recording the tracks in the next couple of months.
"Right now that's the plan," said John Lombardo, an original band member during the mid-'80s who left the Maniacs but has now returned. Mary Ramsey continues to grow as a vocalist and gives the new Maniacs a feeling of unity. 10,000 Maniacs will perform material from the band's upcoming album tonight at 9 in the Marquee at the Tralf, 100 Theater Place.