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Front man, lead guitarist, and songwriter, Steve Blaze, of the now defunct Lillian Axe is a dynamic, multifaceted musician. His talents have manifested themselves in the five studio albums released by former band from 1987 to 1993 on both the MCA and IRS labels. Blaze's post modern, cryptic melodies layered with his soul piercing lyrics characterize him as an outstanding songwriter. His passionate classical background and unique fiery guitar style have earned him the badge of cult guitar hero. Near Life Experience's creations will deliver to the large fan base which anxiously awaits the release of the first recording. Blaze has also functioned in the capacity of a producer and has personally endorsed Jackson-Charvel guitars.
Percussionist Craig Nunenmacher, formerly of Crowbar, received a great deal of exposure as well, having recorded four albums and toured both the U.S. and Europe. He exudes a passion cultivated by his experience and manifested in technique. Nunenmacher exemplifies the power of percussion as he is the icon of a new breed of drummers.
Sam Poitevent, guitarist and backup vocalist, brings with him a great deal of experience to NLE. Poitevent most recently toured and recorded with Runesong. To see him perform is to feel intense conviction in the style that he radiates.
Bassist Jeff "Okie" Okoneski has recorded five independent albums and has produced for independent labels in the Midwestern U.S. His dominant bass lines and pulsating rhythms create mood of intensity that drive the backbone of NLE to new depths.
Near Life Experience is an ensemble of talented musicians with many noteworthy achievements. Its members have collectively sold over 500,000 records worldwide and have had extensive media exposure. Blaze and Nunenmacher have toured Europe eight times, and all four members have toured the U.S. more times than they can count. With hundreds of worldwide print interviews from fanzines to major publications such as Creem, SPIN, Kerrang, and Hit Parader, five MTV videos ( including Nunenmacher's repeated appearances on Beavis and Butthead), a wide variety of television exposure (including a recent ABC news story), the members of NLE are no strangers to all facets of the industry. Massive radio airplay from their former bands, including two top 40 AOR hits, and countless radio interviews and promotional tours have given Steve and Craig the solid foundation for an immense fan base. This vast group of hungry fans stays very responsive to the NLE website and folder on AOL.
The rich layered texture of the music is evident in both the studio recordings and in performance. With an elaborate stage set and unbridled energy, Blaze on stage is like a sorcerer mastering his craft. Blaze's vocal and guitar prowess, the artistry and theatrics of the NLE show create a realm of enchantment. Nunenmacher's phenomenal raw tribal percussion, Okoneski's all encompassing, thunderous bass lines and Poitevent's ethereal guitar sensations are the backdrop for Blaze's poetics, the components of a NEAR LIFE EXPERIENCE.
