Unlocking the Art of Ten-Handed Kung Fu

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The History of 10 Hands
3. The Release of "Kung Fu That's What I Like"
4. Lineup Changes and the Enduring Legacy of 10 Hands
5. Interview with Paul Slavins
   1. The Song Selection for "Kung Fu That's What I Like"
   2. The Significance of "Old Eyes"
   3. The Influence of Gary Mullen Jr. and the Stick
   4. The New Album "Alphabet Girls Volume Two"
6. Conclusion

The Legacy of 10 Hands: A Closer Look at "Kung Fu That's What I Like"

10 Hands, a band that gained prominence in the Dallas-Fort Worth area during the late 80s and early 90s, may not have achieved widespread visibility, but their impact on the local music scene was significant. One of their most iconic albums, "Kung Fu That's What I Like," released in 1988, laid the foundation for their enduring legacy. In this article, we'll Delve into the history of 10 Hands, the creation of this classic album, and the insights shared by lead singer and primary songwriter, Paul Slavins.

1. Introduction

In this era of spin, eclectic reviews, and general musical meanderings, we often stumble upon Hidden Gems from the past. One such gem is the band 10 Hands and their album "Kung Fu That's What I Like." Despite their local prominence and loyal following in the DFW area, 10 Hands Never quite broke into the mainstream. However, their unique sound and enduring legacy have left a lasting impact on the local music scene. In this article, we'll take a closer look at their iconic album and the stories behind its creation.

2. The History of 10 Hands

Formed in the late 80s, 10 Hands went through numerous lineup changes over their ten-year lifespan. However, it was the original lineup of Paul Slavins, Gary Mullen Jr., Steve Brand, Earl Harvin, and Mike Dillon that set the wheels in motion for their musical Journey. Drawing inspiration from Slavins' college compositions and their spontaneous Jam Sessions, 10 Hands quickly gained recognition for their unique Blend of musical styles.

3. The Release of "Kung Fu That's What I Like"

"Kung Fu That's What I Like" hit the music scene in late 1988, capturing the youthful energy and ambition of 10 Hands. Despite its limited tracklist of eight tunes, the album showcased the band's diverse musical repertoire. From politically charged commentaries to love songs about fictional characters, each track offered a unique listening experience. The album's standout features were the instrumental excursions akin to prog rock, leaving a lasting impression on listeners.

4. Lineup Changes and the Enduring Legacy of 10 Hands

Over time, 10 Hands experienced lineup changes, with Matt Chamberlain leaving the band and Earl Harvin joining as his replacement. This transition marked a significant turning point for the group, as Harvin's rhythmic prowess and strong chemistry with Mike Dillon and Gary Mullen Jr. solidified their musical union. Their Cohesive musical bond, reminiscent of iconic bands like Rush, propelled the band's sound to new heights and created a lasting legacy that resonates with fans to this day.

5. Interview with Paul Slavins

In an engaging interview, we had the opportunity to speak directly with Paul Slavins, lead singer, primary songwriter, and keyboardist of 10 Hands. Slavins shared insights into the creation of "Kung Fu That's What I Like" and the journey leading up to its recording. He provided valuable glimpses into the song selection process, the significance of certain tracks like "Old Eyes," and the unique contributions of band members like Gary Mullen Jr. and his mastery of the stick.

1. The Song Selection for "Kung Fu That's What I Like"

   In our interview, Slavins explained that the song selection for "Kung Fu That's What I Like" was a collaborative process, influenced by Earl Harvin's recent inclusion in the band. They chose songs that Harvin felt most comfortable with while incorporating the input of their manager. The album's tracks showcased both their composed parts and their improvisational jams, providing a balanced listening experience.

2. The Significance of "Old Eyes"

   One song that stood out was "Old Eyes," a poignant track with personal significance for Slavins. In a band known for its fictional characters and political commentaries, "Old Eyes" was one of the few songs that delved into real-life experiences and emotions. The song's somber tone and heartfelt lyrics resonated with listeners, making it a standout track on the album.

3. The Influence of Gary Mullen Jr. and the Stick

   Slavins reminisced about the influence of Gary Mullen Jr., who joined the band along with Earl Harvin. Mullen's mastery of the stick, a lesser-known instrument, added a unique dynamic to 10 Hands' sound. The stick's percussive nature blended seamlessly with the band's existing instrumentals, creating a signature sound that fans still associate with their music.

4. The New Album "Alphabet Girls Volume Two"

   Slavins also shared exciting news about his upcoming album, "Alphabet Girls Volume Two." This marks the Second installment in the "Alphabet Girls" series, continuing the exploration of his musical personality. The album builds upon the consistency and variety established in the first volume, showcasing Slavins' growth as an artist.

6. Conclusion

The legacy of 10 Hands and their album "Kung Fu That's What I Like" Continue to captivate music enthusiasts. The band's unique sound, driven by their lineup changes and the rich musical contributions of each member, cemented their status as a local legend. With their enduring legacy and the upcoming release of "Alphabet Girls Volume Two," Paul Slavins and 10 Hands prove that independent music can Create a profound impact and leave a lasting impression on listeners across generations.

Highlights:

• 10 Hands gained local prominence in the DFW area during the late 80s and early 90s.
• "Kung Fu That's What I Like" is a classic album that laid the foundation for their enduring legacy.
• The album showcased diverse musical styles and instrumental excursions reminiscent of prog rock.
• Lineup changes, including the addition of Earl Harvin and Gary Mullen Jr., solidified the band's sound.
• We had an exclusive interview with Paul Slavins, who shared insights into the album's creation.
• "Old Eyes" is a standout track that delves into real-life experiences and emotions.
• Gary Mullen Jr.'s mastery of the stick added a unique dynamic to the band's sound.
• The new album, "Alphabet Girls Volume Two," continues to showcase Slavins' musical growth.

FAQ:

Q: Where can I listen to "Kung Fu That's What I Like" by 10 Hands?

A: "Kung Fu That's What I Like" is available on various streaming platforms such as Amazon Music, Spotify, and Apple Music.

Q: Are there any physical copies of the album available?

A: Limited physical copies of the album were released on CD. However, due to manufacturing backlog, vinyl copies are currently not available.

Q: Will the new album, "Alphabet Girls Volume Two," be released on vinyl?

A: At present, the new album will be released in digital formats and on CD. There are no immediate plans for a vinyl release.

Q: Are 10 Hands still active as a band?

A: Yes, 10 Hands still performs live shows on a regular basis, drawing in fans who have a deep connection with their music.

Q: How would You describe 10 Hands' musical style?

A: 10 Hands' musical style is a unique blend of various genres, incorporating elements of prog rock, jazz, and alternative rock.

Q: Can I find more interviews with the band members and behind-the-scenes footage?

A: Yes, there are additional interviews and behind-the-scenes footage available, offering further insights into the band's creative process and history.