The alternative/indie rock outfit
Stir Fried is the conception of singer/songwriter/guitarist Johnny Markowski. Being the son of country-folk singer Thomas Jefferson Kaye, Markowski sparked an interest in music at an early age. He and
Stir Fried have been making music since the early '90s. The band officially made its debut with a self-titled release in 1996, and the critically acclaimed Electrified followed two years later. Signed to Falbo Records,
Stir Fried is comprised of Malkowski, vocalist Joanne Lediger, guitarist Jan London, percussionist Vincent Lorenzo, drummer Jimi Blackford, and bassist Rawn Randall. They released a third studio effort entitled Blue Diamond Miners in fall 2000, showcasing the musical talents of special guests such as pedal steel guitarist Buddy Cage (
Bob Dylan), pianist Jo Jo Hermann (
Widespread Panic), banjoist
Tony Trischka (
Béla Fleck),
Dr. John, and organ player
Bernie Worrell (
Talking Heads). ~ MacKenzie Wilson