Biography

The Making of "Full Circle"

Sparks At Sea

As the waning moon stole its last peek over the fading horizon, the vessel quietly sliced through the calm, black ocean skin. The ship hastened toward exotic tropical destinations beckoning in the distance. Deep within the opulent bowels of the floating city, among the occupants of an elegant lounge, something magic was happening. A gathering of polka enthusiasts were getting swept away with the sweet, undulating sounds emanating from the band on the stage. Equally moved by the product of their combined efforts, a rare ensemble of well-known polka musicians proved to be the source of the excitement. Polka Hall of famers, Lenny Gomulka, Jimmy Weber and Al Piatkowski, along with Mike Stapinski, Roger Malinowski, and Mike Matousek were sensing a new, yet somehow familiar chemistry as they performed. Twin clarinets sang playfully in the hands of Lenny and Jimmy as the regal sound of Mike’s trumpet volunteered power and majesty. Al executed meticulously on the piano accordion as he contributing artful color and smooth rhythm. With intuitive dynamics, Roger masterfully teased the drums while Mike’s refined bass walks girded the sound with a rich, motivating pulse. The inhabitants of the dance floor floated in the wave of sound as they gleefully surrendered to the warm embrace. Almost surreal, it was an experience reminiscent to that of a bygone era. Clean, melodic, and precise; it was unadulterated polka music. That evening, somewhere off the coast of the Baha Peninsula, these veteran troubadours had gone “full circle.”

“Full Circle”

“Full Circle”, is truly an apt description. After all the years of grooming, enhancing, and innovating their own polka music, together these musicians found themselves recreating a sound that defined the 60’s & 70’s. Classic hits originally performed and recorded by renowned bands like The Tones, The Naturals, and others were joyfully revisited. Obviously, each of them has their own polka and private endeavors to pursue, but when opportunity allows, Lenny, Jimmy, Mike, Al, Roger, and Mike plan to get together under the moniker of “Full Circle” to enjoy sharing the timeless sound they rediscovered. Come Full Circle with us!