Around The Block

Last Updated: 5/13/2008

Contact Information: drums1214@yahoo.com or blockgirls3@aol.com

Web Site Address:
http://www.myspace.com/aroundtheblock1

Location: Maryland

Type of Act: A unique blend of rock, pop,and soul. GO TO www.myspace.com/aroundtheblock1 to hear our new demo! Or click on links here in the mp3 section above, click on song then click on Around the Block file and select.

Established: December 2006

How To Book This Act:
drums1214@yahoo.com 410-206-8846 or blockgirls3@aol.com 410-803-0555

Performers:
Michele Block lead vocals
Mark Zlatich guitar/ backing vocals
Gazzelle- keys
Blake Richardson bass/lead and backing vocals
Jeff Leasure drums/backing vocals



Michele has wanted to be a vocalist since the age of 6. She began taking lessons at the age of 11 with Sara Pierce at FSU and continued for 8 years. Through the years Michele has performed with many bands from Richmond to Cleveland including National acts such as The Shirelles and Archie Bell. How many bands you may ask? Please don’t ask her to count it may take awhile. Although classically trained her heart belongs to Motown, Blues, Jazz and good old Rock and Roll.

Mark Zlatich has been playing guitar for over 10 years. His influences are very eclectic. Starting out with Jimi Hendrix, Mark soon became inspired by Alex Leifson, Jeff Beck, and Andy Summers. After playing in several Boston-based bands (including Steady Earnest-a very popular SKA band), Mark went on tour with Ringling Brothers Circus. Mark found his way to Maryland after the tour and played with rock bands, Witzend (with which Mark recorded 2 CD's), and then The Evermores. Currently, Mark owns Reisterstown Music Center and plays with ATB

Gazzelle has achieved a life-long dream. He once said to his mama, "I wanna be a musician when I grow up!" Mama said, "Oh, you poor dear. You can't have it both ways!" In the mid-60s, he would sneak into Essex churches late at night, steal a bottle of altar wine, stoke up the Hammond, and pretend he was Quasimoto. His first live gig (at the age of 17) was in 1971 during military basic training. He played "Vehicle" and "I Want You Back" in the Fort Knox 5th Battalion band for a thousand very drunk recruits on their way to Viet-Nam. In 1987, his mama bought him an teeny little Casio with half-size keys and a year later he was in a Christian-metal band called "Catalyst" from Twinsburg, Ohio. He moved on to an Elvis band and later to 60s and 70s groups around the Cleveland/Akron area. Gazzelle moved back to Baltimore in 1999 and joined Rebound from Glen Burnie. In 2005, Rebound disbanded and Gazzelle played with "Walter Jay & Texas Flood" for a year and Frank Barranco's "Jettstream" for another year while exhuming his musical roots. During this time he sat in with dozens of local groups from Frederick to Alexandria to Harrisburg, just for the buzz. He is truly the music junkie that needs his regular fix.


Blake played his first gig at the ripe old age of 8 in his hometown of Houston, Texas with the band The Kings (the oldest band member was 17). He essentially taught himself to play guitar and bass, but bass soon became his instrument of choice. He played continually in some of Houston’s most popular variety groups until the age of 29, when he decided to return to professional school. Most notably, he helped his brother form the group Eclipse in 1977, which soon became the top variety act in the area and still exists as one of the most popular acts in Houston today. After taking a long hiatus from music, he returned to the scene six years ago. He currently studies jazz improvisation with Dave DeMarco, of NeverNever fame. Since his return to music he has played locally with Flying Z, Ten Cent Penny, What About Bob (acoustic trio) and the Epics. Blake plays both fretted and fretless 4, 5 and 6 string basses.

Jeff’s musical journey began back in the heyday of the classic rock movement. In elementary school Jeff was exposed to rock drumming through his neighbor who played for the legendary Baltimore band Paper Cup. When school offered him the opportunity to learn an instrument there was no hesitation, his decision had already been made. School band was not Jeff’s primary musical outlet though. He spent countless hours in his parent’s basement playing along to records (that’s right records, he’s that old) by The Beatles, Ted Nugent, Foghat, Led Zeppelin and many other bands of the 60’s and 70’s.
After high school, family and career took precedent and the drums sat unattended. A 15 year break rekindled the desire to play live and Jeff has been performing around Baltimore ever since.
Having the good fortune to play with the members of ATB has been his greatest experience by far.

Description:
Located out of Harford County,Around The Block consists of 5 musicians with years of performing experience committed to bringing you a unique blend on rock,pop and soul.
With the impeccable talents of vocalist Michele Block, guitarist Mark Zlatich, bassist Blake Richardson,keyboardist Gazzelle and drummer Jeff Leasure, Around The Block delivers pure musical entertainment.
With so many local bands playing the same standard fare,ATB has taken a fresh approach and offers a unique blend of great music.
With an outstanding lead vocalist and musicians dedicated to nothing but the best, Around The Block is sure to entertain.

Here's what others had to say:

You guys are truly Amazing! Great variety of music-the level of Energy and
Charisma is Explosive, from beginning to end! Everyone should see Around the Block
perform-Great Time!!

You guys are great! Last night at TimberCreek was our
second time there, and we love the band.

Kudos to the person who booked M.O.B. The sounds of electronic and percussion instruments were skillfully delivered and reflected the experience and training of the performers.

I was particularly involved in the rendition and interpretation of popular songs in recent and historic American popular culture. Vocalist Michele Block demonstrated the rare ability to capture the meaning of those beloved songs, and to obliterate cultural ownership. I found her range and energy as a vocalist to be empowering.

The group sounded awesome, as usual. Great time!!

You really do have something unique!! Had a blast!!

The band sounded great and everyone I brought had a good time. That girl is a natural performer and has a great voice. I look forward to seeing them again.


Our favorite link is www.reisterstownmusic.com Check it out!


Around The Block is also available for weddings, corporate events,public and private events, fund raisers and more. Give us a call today.

Since April 2007 we have played at
Sheldon's 313
Perry's
Timber Creek
Wild Duck Cafe'
Eagle's Nest
Mechanicsville Moose Lodge
Vera's White Sands Beach Club
Harford County Farm Fair
American Legion Hall #148
Bull on the Beach
Reisterstown Festival
Micho's
The Towne Pub and Restaurant
The Ott House
Sean Bolan's
Golden Sports Bar and Grill
Michael's Pub (Columbia)
McGinty's Public House
Carson's Creekside
Reisterstown Moose (Dream Machines Car Club of Carrol County adopt a family fundraiser)
Manor Tavern
Pall Corporation Annual Holiday Event
The Towne Tavern
The Greene Turtle (Mt. Airy)
The Greene Turtle (Bel Air)
Poplar Inn
Whispers
Austin Grill (Baltimore)
MD Beer and Food Festival at Ripken Stadium
Jammin' Java Vienna VA

Show Dates

Friday, May 16, 2008

McGinty's Public House   Silver Spring, MD  301-587-1270

Back at McGinty's to party some more. Check this place out. (www.mcgintyspublichouse.com)Excellent food, drink and atmosphere. Premier restaurant in Silver Spring. Join us! LET'S GO! We play 10-1

Saturday, May 17, 2008

Middle River Yacht Club   Essex, MD  410-687-1160

Around the Block is here to help the Middle River Yacht Club kick off their summer season! OPEN TO THE PUBLIC ! 8 to midnight

Friday, May 30, 2008

Middleton Tavern   Annapolis, MD  410-269-1256

So glad to be here! We play 9-1. Come for dinner and stay for the show. Enjoy one of the finest female singers in the Balt/ Wash area.

Saturday, June 07, 2008

Private Party

Private party! Poolside! Adult sip and dip. Summer has just begun. It will be a blast for sure!

Friday, June 13, 2008

Watermark Cruises   Annapolis, MD

This is so cool! ATB to entertain the patrons aboard one of the Watermark Cruise ships departing Annapolis! 8-11

Sunday, June 15, 2008

Reisterstown Moose Lodge 1577   Reisterstown, MD

Crab Feast . For members and guests only. For more info contact Jim at 410-833-4209 or 410-259-5948

Thursday, June 19, 2008

Mountain Branch Golf Club   Joppa , MD  410-836-9600

Join us on the deck at this superb restaurant. We play 6-9 on the deck overlooking the golf course. Mountain Branch offers the finest in dining. A fabulous way to spend a summer's evening.

Saturday, June 28, 2008

Private Party

Wedding reception

Friday, July 11, 2008

McGinty's Public House   Silver Spring, MD  301-587-1270

WOW! Back again. This place is by far the best in the Baltimore/ Washington area. Thanks Greg! We take the stage at 10

Saturday, July 12, 2008

Michael's Pub   Columbia, MD  410-290-7878

Back once again to rock the house! Be there! We play 9-1

Saturday, July 12, 2008

Perry Hall Town Fair   Perry Hall, MD

Around the Block will be havin' some summertime fun at the Perry Hall Town festival. 11-3 www.phwmba.org/townfair.html

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Mountain Branch Golf Club   Joppa , MD  410-836-9600

Back again to enjoy this incredible place. Breathtaking view of the land. We play 6-9 on the deck overlooking the golf course.

Friday, July 18, 2008

Hunt Valley Main Street Live   Hunt Valley, MD

Main Street Live at Hunt Valley Mall. Outdoor celebration. Shop, eat, and enjoy the best days of summer. We play 7:30-9:30.

Saturday, July 19, 2008

Towne Tavern   Cockeysville, MD  410-667-0774

Back at The Towne Tavern! Always a fun time here. Hot music, cold beer. What more could you ask for? Join us for some summertime fun! We play 9-1

Sunday, August 10, 2008

Havre de Grace Seafood Festival   Havre de Grace , MD  410-939-1525

We'll be rockin' both the surf and turf at the Havre de Grace annual seafood festival. This is a blowout celebration every year. We take the stage from 1-3 www.hdgseafoodfestival.org

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Mountain Branch Golf Club   Joppa , MD  410-836-9600

Once again at Mountain Branch. On the deck overlooking the golf course. Come experience fine dining and take in the view. We play 6-9

Saturday, August 16, 2008

Towne Pub & Restaurant   Aberdeen, MD  410-272-4404

WOW! Back again!One of our favorite places to play. This place ROCKS! 9-1

Saturday, August 30, 2008

Carson's Creekside   Middle River, MD

Back once again at Carson's. Fantastic food, great staff, great atmosphere. This place rocks! ATB is gald to be back. We play 9-1

Friday, September 05, 2008

First Friday's Concert Bel Air   Bel Air, MD

ATB is back on it's home turf to celebrate Bel Air's First Friday event! Summer ain't over, plenty of things to see and do. We play 4-8 right in the heart of Bel Air.Sure to be a blast!

Sunday, September 07, 2008

Reisterstown Festival   Reisterstown, MD

Back for a 2nd year in a row! We open for Tom Principato! Check out www.tomprincipato.com Show starts 2pm

Friday, September 12, 2008

Poplar Inn   Dundalk, MD  410-285-2590

COOL! Back again at the Polplar Inn. A fun place to hang on A Friday night. Great people, great staff. Always a fun time at the Poplar Inn 9-1

Saturday, September 13, 2008

Rockfield Manor   Bel Air, MD  410-638-4565

3rd Annual Harford County Wine festival. We play 12-3. Festival runs 12-7pm on Saturday and 12-5pm on Sunday.$25 per person. $15 non drinkers. www.rockfieldmanor.com

Friday, September 19, 2008

Sean Bolan's   Bel Air, MD

Join us at THE best place in Bel Air! Sean Bolan's! Always a great time! This place rocks. Good crowd, good times! We play 10-1

Friday, September 26, 2008

Towne Tavern   Cockeysville, MD  410-667-0774

We return to the Towne Tavern. It's always a blast here! We'll party for sure!Lets go! We play9-1

Saturday, September 27, 2008

Ripken Stadium   Aberdeen, MD

Back again for th Maryland Beer and Food Fest. Last time was fantastic. See you again! Both days 12-3

Sunday, September 28, 2008

Ripken Stadium   Aberdeen, MD

Back again for th Maryland Beer and Food Fest. Last time was fantastic. See you again! Both days 12-3

Friday, October 17, 2008

Poplar Inn   Dundalk, MD  410-285-2590

This place ROCKS . The Poplar Inn is just FUN! Great people. Good Times. 9-1

Saturday, October 18, 2008

Driftwood Inn   Glen Burnie, MD  410-761-5588

First time at the Driftwood Inn. We've heard a lot of good about this place and are glad to be here! We play 9-1. Come out , hang and have FUN!

Friday, November 07, 2008

Sean Bolan's   Bel Air, MD

Back at THE BEST PLACE in Bel Air! Sean Bolan's. Come see for yourself! This place rocks! 10-1

Saturday, November 08, 2008

Towne Pub & Restaurant   Aberdeen, MD  410-272-4404

Back at The Towne Pub! Always a good time here. Great food and drink and party atmosphere. Check it out! We play 9-1

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Towne Tavern   Cockeysville, MD  410-667-0774

Our 4th time here! This place is a blast. We kick off at 9 and go to 1.

Sunday, November 30, 2008

Boordy Vineyards   Hydes, MD  410-592-5015

Great to be here as we celebrate Boordy Vineyard's November Sunday events. We play 1-4:30. Come out and enjoy some of the finest wines, soup and other tasteful treats. $15 per person

Friday, December 12, 2008

Sean Bolan's   Bel Air, MD

Last time this year at Sean Bolan's. And it's close to Jeff's birthday so get out here and party like there is no tomorrow. Sean Bolan's is THE BEST in Bel Air! We get it cranked up at 10!

Top of Page  Home  Search  Login  Venues  Performers  Messages  Advertise

Copyright © 2008 Maryland Party, LLC