Ben Allen, music editor

Local band The Nucleus will be playing their first show in over a year this Friday, July 8th at The Jambalaya.

I spoke with drummer Pete Ciotti and asked him why it had been so long since they had performed. "We are all family guys with wives and kids and are also just busy living life," he said. He continued, "We all still love playing together so I don't think we'll ever be officially done. This it has been such a big part of who we are an who we have become."

When asked about the improvisational nature of his band's performance, Ciotti responded, "We do lots of improvising, but all of our songs have structure." I wanted to know if he considered The Nucleus a "jam band." Ciotti responded, "I guess you could call us a jam band but not so much in the typical generic terms. We have a little something else to add to the mix and I think it's honest and very truthful. A lot of our music stems from the experiences we have shared together, be it on the road or just as friends hanging out together for so long."

The upcoming show is a benefit for Jam for Food. Ciotti explained the event. "Jam for Food is a really cool idea spawned by our keyboardist Brian Swizlo. It's a great way to help all the families that can't afford food in Humboldt County. I'm very proud to be able to help our local families and give something back." Although the performance is free, food donations are encouraged.

When I asked if there were any covers, fan favorites or anything special planned for the show, Ciotti responded, "Of course but you will have to come out to see. It's gonna be lots of fun for sure!"

See The Nucleus live Friday, July 8th at The Jambalaya. 915 H St, Arcata. Doors at 9:00 PM