Johnny Sketch & The Dirty Notes

Biography

Johnny Sketch & The Dirty Notes is a genre-defying band formed in New Orleans in 2001, known for their energetic live performances and eclectic musical style. The group was founded by Marc Paradis, who performs as Johnny Sketch, alongside a cohort of classically trained musicians adopting colorful alter egos. The band's origins trace back to a spontaneous entry in a battle of the bands, with the name 'Johnny Sketch' inspired by a playful take on classic band naming conventions and a friend's use of the term 'sketchy.'

Over the years, Johnny Sketch & The Dirty Notes have developed a sound that blends irreverent funk with rock riffs, Gypsy/Klezmer influences, Latin rhythms, and a prominent horn section, all delivered with a sense of humor and showmanship. Their lineup includes Marc Paradis (guitar, electric cello, vocals), Dave Pomerleau (bass, vocals), Andre Bohren (drums, vocals), Omar Ramirez (trumpet, flugelhorn), Sage Newell (saxophones), and Josh Paxton (keyboards). Their performances are known for their dynamic range, moving audiences from laid-back grooves to high-energy frenzies, and they have cultivated a loyal following in New Orleans and beyond.

The band’s legacy is rooted in their commitment to musical freedom, versatility, and fun, making them a staple of the New Orleans music scene. Their ability to seamlessly blend genres and keep audiences engaged has set them apart, earning them a reputation as one of the city’s most entertaining and musically adventurous acts.

Fun Facts

• The band was originally formed as a half-joke for a battle of the bands, with the name 'Johnny Sketch' inspired by a friend's use of the word 'sketchy.'
• Marc Paradis, the frontman, also plays in a rock band (Rory Danger and the Danger Dangers) and an ABBA cover band, showcasing his musical versatility.
• Each band member performs under a colorful stage persona, such as Busta Gnutt, Dirty Johnny, Johnny Rico, and Sage Rouge.
• The band is known for their unpredictable live shows, which can shift from calm grooves to frenzied dance parties within a single set.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Classical Music Teachers (unspecified) - Several band members are classically trained, indicating formative instruction in classical music which influences their technical proficiency and musical diversity. (General musical approach and arrangements) [pre-2001]

Key Collaborators

• Dave Pomerleau (Busta Gnutt) - Founding member, bassist, and backing vocalist in Johnny Sketch & The Dirty Notes. (All band albums and live performances) [2001–present]
• Andre Bohren (Dirty Johnny) - Founding member, drummer, and backing vocalist in Johnny Sketch & The Dirty Notes. (All band albums and live performances) [2001–present]
• Omar Ramirez (Johnny Rico) - Trumpet and flugelhorn player in Johnny Sketch & The Dirty Notes. (All band albums and live performances) [2001–present]
• Sage Newell (Sage Rouge) - Saxophonist in Johnny Sketch & The Dirty Notes. (All band albums and live performances) [2001–present]
• Josh Paxton - Keyboardist in Johnny Sketch & The Dirty Notes. (All band albums and live performances) [2001–present]
• Rory Danger and the Danger Dangers - Marc Paradis is also a member of this band, collaborating on rock projects outside of Johnny Sketch & The Dirty Notes. (Live performances and recordings with Rory Danger and the Danger Dangers) [dates unspecified]
• ABBA Cover Band (unspecified name) - Marc Paradis participates as a singer and musician, exploring pop music influences. (Live performances) [dates unspecified]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. New Dixieland (The Big Awesome)
2. Going On (Sketch)
3. Why Try (Sketch)
4. Vieux Caribe (Sketch)
5. Cora Lee (The Big Awesome)
6. Club Fabulous (2,000 Days)
7. Stop It (Sketch)
8. Night Man (Sketch)
9. Do You No Good (Sketch)
10. Break Me (2,000 Days)

External Links

• Spotify