The Hairbrain Scheme

The Hairbrain Scheme is not merely a band. It’s a demented, twisted, and addictive musical monstrosity. Since taking up arms in late 2004, the Santa Barbara-based quartet of Grant Parsons (vocals), Chris Nava (keyboard), Nate Harris (bass), and Bobby Halvorson (drums) has dazzled audiences across California with its infectious sound and electric stage presence.

In an age where nearly every band claims to be pushing the boundaries of music, The Hairbrain Scheme offers a truly unique auditory experience that defies immediate categorization. Drawing comparisons to well-known acts like Devo, Frank Zappa, and Queen, the band’s music incorporates elements of jazz, hardcore, punk, new wave, indie rock, pop, electronica, and oldies. The end result is a fresh sound that’s conventional enough to keep heads bobbing, while simultaneously being bizarre enough to keep people scratching their heads.

This flavorful brand of music has quickly propelled The Hairbrain Scheme to the very forefront of the Santa Barbara music scene. In 2005, the band vanquished more than twenty other groups on their way to a decisive victory in the University of California at Santa Barbara’s Battle of the Bands. The band also made headlines by opening for such big-time acts as The Walkmen, Busta Rhymes, RJD2, 31 Knots, and Damien Marley.

It’s impossible to say precisely what’s next for The Hairbrain Scheme, but one gets the feeling that this fabulous foursome is on the cusp of something tremendous. Stay tuned and see for yourself.