Senor Happy

Though outwardly affable and easygoing, Señor Happy’s Derek Schanche’s quiet intensity is what sets them apart from what might be called the “typical Boston rock sound”. His haunting vocal delivery, reminiscent of Belinda Butcher from My Bloody Valentine, and his veiled and slightly unsettling lyrics are what create the texture of the band’s sound. Bassist Joe McMahon and drummer Tom Polce are possibly the two busiest musicians in Boston, currently playing in eight bands combined, recording twenty-five or so records over the last couple of years.

Their first release, the critically acclaimed Señor Happy, was nominated as best debut local album by the Boston Music Awards, and was pegged by CMJ as having an “uncanny, unpretentious knack for affable hooks, and each song, loaded with passionate, grungy riffs, ends quickly and knocks you on your keester.” Their most recent album, I’m Sorry, was co-produced by Mike Denneen (Fountains of Wayne, Howie Day, Loveless) and band member Polce. They’ve also toured supporting acts like Walt Mink, Red Red Meat, The Figgs, and American Hi-Fi.