Fans of the television show Scrubs will no doubt recognize The Blanks (aka Ted’s Band). Not a fan of Scrubs? What’s your problem? Really? Not a fan of Scrubs? Are you allergic to laughing? Anyway…I am not reviewing a hilarious side-splitting television show. I am however highlighting the hilarious, side-splitting and incredibly talented a cappella group that has made numerous guest appearances on said show over the years.
Sam Lloyd, Philip McNiven, George Miserlis and Paul F. Perry are musical machines that have joined together to make the mega-musical-machine known as the The Blanks. Individually they possess great musicality. But when they join together all heck breaks loose. Imagine singing Transformers. Strike that. Picture, Gobots. Yeah, Gobots! Wow, I bet my action figure* reference is just wooing the ladies. I guess what I am trying to say is that these guys are awesome-sauce.
I had the pleasure of working with The Blanks a year ago and then crossed paths with them again just a few months back. These guys are some of the nicest artists that I have ever met. They are humble, grounded, positive and just plain fun to be around. Their collective charm shines brightly when they perform on stage. They take their craft seriously and they make the job of entertaining people seem effortless.
Sam, Paul and George first came together as studious studying students at Syracuse University. Years later out in L.A., the trio welcomed Philip aboard, and that move completed their quartet. Meanwhile, Sam Lloyd landed the role of Ted Buckland, the lovably goofy lawyer on Scrubs. It just so happened that at a holiday wrap party for the show Sam brought his gang with him and they performed. One thing led to another and the rest, as they say, is history. And by history, I mean The Blanks became a part of a televised series that has then allowed them to travel the world spreading their music like a virus. Not a bad virus, mind you. A super good virus.
In 2004, The Blanks released Riding the Wave, a collection of both original and cover songs. You will even hear some contributions from fellow Scrubs cast members. The album is fun, quirky and entertaining. The collection is rich with comedic value, but don’t be fooled into believing that is all you are getting. Musically, the harmonies and arrangements are on point. What are my favorite tracks? Well, thank you for asking. I would recommend original songs “Happy Halloween” and “Commandos (Attack!)”. Their theme-song covers of “Underdog”, “Charles in Charge” and “Speed Racer” always crack me up. The sunny cover of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” is not featured on Riding the Wave, but it can be picked up as a single.
We have fingers crossed that we will get some more of The Blanks in the final season of Scrubs. Catch ‘em on TV and make sure you experience their live show. You will not be disappointed.
*Action figures are NOT dolls
The Blanks with their version of the “Speed Racer” theme song as featured on “Scrubs”
The Blanks with their version of “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” as featured on “Scrubs”
The Blanks (assisted by an electronic pumpkin) with their original song “Happy Halloween”
Amazon
“Over the Rainbow” – Single
iTunes
Interested in ordering merchandise from The Blanks? Visit their web site!
If you enjoy a cappella music check out Naturally 7 and Straight No Chaser.
Needing more comedy? Give Flight of the Conchords a spin.
