about the band
Tom Jares
Songwriter, Vocalist, Guitarist
Tom is a versatile musician known for his songwriting, guitar skills, and captivating vocals, originating from Cleveland, Ohio. Over the years, he has lent his talents to several acclaimed Cleveland-based bands, including The Wild Giraffes, The French Lenards, and Coltrane WRECK.
His musical journey began with a desire to craft compelling songs that tell intriguing stories. Tom thrives on the challenge of songwriting and enjoys collaborating with fellow band members, particularly his bassist, Rick Wager. He finds inspiration in music that pushes boundaries and challenges him as both a writer and listener.
Recently, Tom has ventured into home studio recording, aiming to capture the distinctive sound of The French Lenards with modern technology. Despite facing challenges along the way, he finds fulfillment in the creative process and the moments of breakthrough.
After a hiatus, Tom's return to The French Lenards marks an exciting new chapter in his musical career. With fresh ideas and a renewed passion for music, he looks forward to collaborating with his bandmates to produce captivating music that resonates with both loyal fans and new listeners alike.
Michael Scherma
Saxophone
Michael is a saxophone player known for his passion for original music. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with notable bands such as The French Lenards, Coltrane Wreck, The Crib Lizards, and Two Fingers Shy, contributing memorable arrangements and captivating solos to their performances.
His journey into the world of music began at a young age when he was inspired by the energy of rock concerts passing by Cleveland Municipal Stadium. Determined to be a part of that world, he immersed himself in music, eventually joining The French Lenards in his early twenties. Despite a hiatus to pursue other goals, Michael's love for music endured, leading to a reunion with his bandmates and the creation of new, innovative sounds.
For Michael, playing original music is a deeply personal and rewarding experience, where each solo tells a unique story. He embraces experimentation and challenges conventional notions of saxophone music, constantly pushing the boundaries of sound and creativity.
Jerry Gavlak
Drummer
Jerry, born in Pittsburgh and raised in Cleveland, found his passion for music in the heart of Colorado during a Christmas break in 1984. It was at a musician jam night where fate introduced him to one of the guitarists from a local band. Little did he know, this encounter would change the course of his life.
As luck would have it, Jerry was asked to try out for the band as they were in need of a new drummer. Despite the odds, Jerry made the cut, and the journey of The French Lenards began. Rehearsing tirelessly in his parents' basement, Jerry's family played a significant role in shaping the band into what it is today. He knows they watch over the band with pride as they continue their musical journey.
Jerry's life has been a mix of pursuits. A former firefighter and paramedic, he later decided to chase his dream in the medical field, moving to Ft. Lauderdale in 2001. However, his love for music brought him back to Cleveland in 2016, where he reunited with his old bandmates.
Jerry's musical tastes are eclectic, but his heart belongs to the Ramones, and his drumming style is influenced by legends like Kenny Arnoff. With a passion for writing and recording new music, Jerry and The French Lenards invite you to experience their live performances, promising an unforgettable experience for music enthusiasts.
Rick Wager
Bassist
French Lenards bassist Rick Wager is an Ohio native who plays lefty on a right-handed bass. He has played most of the larger venues and popular haunts throughout his Cleveland history. He changed towns twice ending up in Tacoma near Washington DC and Santa Cruz California at different periods in his career but now remains in his home state. He is a singer-songwriter and plays a variety of Eastern instruments besides bass and percussion. His recorded bass and drum work has appeared on radio along with live broadcasts. He has played with the French Lenards for about four years and his vocals and bass work appear here on his second release with the band.