The band Central Ave has a core value of dazzling crowds with a mix of fun, catchy, honest, heartfelt, original songs along with popular rock covers of the 70's, 80's and 90's through today which are enjoyed by all. The bands founder, singer/songwriter/guitarist, Joe Sorrentino, started writing songs back when he was in high school in the early nineties. Throughout his college years he played in a band that he formed called Soulacious, which won the All State College Battle of the Bands in 2000. Over time various band members rotated in and out of the band due to other obligations. With a new band line up in 2009, Sorrentino decided to rename the band Central Ave, named after the street in Needham MA, where he lives and also where the band rehearses. With over 18 years experience writing songs and performing in front of a crowd, Sorrentino is ready to take on any challenge that comes his way. Sorrentino draws inspiration from artists ranging from Tom Petty and The Black Crowes to Alice in Chains and Stone Temple Pilots but the list goes on and on. Bass player and back up vocalist, Matt Barber joined the band in 2009 and has written and co-written with Sorrentino several of the band's original songs. He began playing as a teenager, when a group of friends set out to form a band and nobody wanted to play bass. He took up the challenge and has never looked back. With over 15 years of experience, Barber has played in a variety of genres from jam bands to hardcore but is happiest playing rock. Influences include the music of Incubus, Led Zeppelin, Wolfmother, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, The Arctic Monkeys, and Cage the Elephant among others. Barber currently lives in Watertown MA. Lead guitarist, Lesly Bueno joined the band in 2010. Bueno comes from the Dominican Republic and currently resides in Peabody MA. His influences range from Dream Theater and Pink Floyd to Steve Vai and Santana. Drummer & Percussionist, GK Hynes joined the band in late 2011. GK has been playing drums for 26 years & has played in many superb bands over the years ( The Nubbish, The Leeds Society & Noise Factory). His style is straight forward rock with tilt to pop style music. GK draws inspiration from drummers such as Neil Peart, Chad Sexton and Mark Brzezicki. GK currently resides in Braintree, MA. K