Krakow was formed in 1995 with the original members John Kleber (Guitar), Brian Chaffee (Keys, Vocals), J. Barry (Bass), Jared Nordman (Drums), and Nathan Kraft (Guitar). The band spent several years going through tumultuous changes and reinventions, as well as releasing their debut CD Krakow 1445. In 1998 Jared and Nathan 1eft the band to pursue their college careers leaving Krakow to begin their ascent to their current sound and lineup. A.J. Sausville and Reed Brewer joined as drummer and guitarist respectively, rounding out Krakow and greatly altering the sound and direction of the band. Basically an entirely new band with the old name, Krakow began playing gigs in hope of supporting their new sound and approach.
In the summer of 1998 Krakow released their first EP, Foo Foo's adventures in hell. As far as the previous recordings are concerned, they are looked upon as sketches of what was to become Krakow. Now solid and gaining momentum, Krakow played Locobazooka 1999 and took an honorable mention in the Worcester Phoenix's Best Music Poll for Best New Groove/Jam Band. In the spring of 2000 Krakow continued to pick up the pace by winning 2nd place in the Phoenix Best Music Poll Groove/Jam Band Category. Later that summer, Saturday, June 17th to be exact, Krakow took home the grand prize as First Place winners of the Rock of Ages 2000 Battle of the Bands, held at Sharky's in Nashua, New Hampshire sponsored by Rock 101.1 WGIR.
Saturday, September 23, 2000 Krakow released the highly anticipated MINNESOTA. The bands second full length CD was received with open arms by fans and critics alike. MINNESOTA received praise for capturing Krakow's versatility and the bands distinct ability to cover the complete musical spectrum. Wanting to end 2000 on a high, on Saturday December 23 Krakow organized and headlined Coal Miner's Pub First Annual Food Drive. The band asked fans to bring canned goods to help support the Wachusett Health Education Action Team (WHEAT) in exchange for raffle tickets to win CDs, Gift Packs, and Gift Certificates donated by local businesses. When the band stepped off the stage after a 3 hour set, Krakow had raised over 1000 pounds of food to help families who are less fortunate in the Wachusett area.
In 2001 Krakow added arts and crafts to their repertoire by working with their crew and fans to create back drops constructed and painted like Bourbon Street in New Orleans. They Mardi Gras to a capacity crowd in their hometown of Gardner, Massachusetts. The night was complete with beads, dubloons, piņatas, and a crowded dance floor that did not stop until the lights came on. Spring 2001 will bring Krakow back in the Studio for their next project while the summer will bring outdoor festivals for Krakow to entertain wider audiences and reach out to new fans. for free downlands concert info and more www.krakheads.org