Pittsburgh jam band The Other Bugs are the kind of group that can lock into a groove and let the music call the shots. Their song “Bug Out” is an invitation to connect with yourself through music.
The Other Bugs recently spoke with WYEP's Joey Spehar before their show at the Thunderbird on Saturday.
What’s your musical history up to this point?
Nick and Eric K: Guitarist Eric DiFiore and bassist Eric Koester were members of the band Charm & Chain along with their former drummer. When that band dissolved, they took some time off before rejoining in 2020 as The Other Bugs and adding guitarist Nick Bellini to the fold. Since the release of their debut album in December of 2023, The Other Bugs have developed their sound even further by adding Scott Hazuda on keyboards. Scott adds even more diversity to the already eclectic sound. He played his first show with the band on 4/5/2024 at Moondog's in Blawnox. Drummer Brian Taylor joined the band in late 2024 and played his first gig on Dec. 11, 2024 at Club Cafe.
How do you describe your sound?
Eric D and Eric K: The Other Bugs are a jam band at heart, often choosing to take sections of songs along an improvisational path. We thrive on developing deep grooves that include elements of jazz, funk, blues, and good old-fashioned rock 'n' roll.
Tell us more about the song "Bug Out." What inspired you to write it and what does it mean to you?
Nick: “Bug Out” is a song about connecting with yourself through music. I've always wanted to write a song that encourages people to do that. The live music experience has always been an integral part of my ethos, and I think that everybody should get the chance to leave the world behind for as long as the music will allow!
What was the first album that really changed your life?
Eric K: Pearl Jam, "Ten"
Eric D: The Beatles, "Rubber Soul"
Nick: The Rolling Stones, "Exile on Main Street"
Scott: Beastie Boys, "Paul's Boutique"
Brian: Tool, "Lateralus"
Who are some other Pittsburgh artists you think more people should listen to?
The Sun Champs, Brahctopus, Norside Organ Trio, Paging Doctor Moon, Barnacle Feet, theCause, SamJAMwich, The Chomps, Wild Blue Yonder, The Moat Rats, Different Places in Space, The Wolf Tones, Habatat, Shrimp Hat, Massive Hawk, Bucket of Puppies, Kyle Greene Band, Taking Shapes, and Zinnia's Garden... to name a few! Pittsburgh is ripe with musical talent.
Any other super interesting things about you we should know? - The Other Bugs have a wide age range among members, from the youngest Nick, 33, to the oldest Scott, 48.
The Other Bugs are:
Eric DiFiore - guitar and vocals
Nick Bellini - guitar and vocals
Eric Koester -5-string bass and vocals
Scott Hazuda - keyboards and vocals
Brian Taylor – drums
