Bio
Blue collar Acoustic
Playing your favorite tunes from the 60's to 2000's
Blue Collar Acoustic plays a wide variety of music that gives you that unplugged feel and sonic clarity. The bands members draw from several different genres of interest and fuse those together for a unique take on some of your favorite songs. The band was formed in 2023 with the current members Brent McEwen, Gary Alloco, Chet Konarski, and Jon Antal. We are based on the east side of Rochester NY and are ready to gig! Check out our videos and songlist! We are available to play bars, clubs and private parties. Contact us today.
Brent
Rhythm and Lead Guitar
Brent McEwen, originally from Palmyra, NY, and now residing in Penfield, NY, has had a dynamic and evolving musical journey. His passion for music began in the band Vital Signs, where he played both rhythm and lead guitar from 1986 to 1990. Following a lineup change, the band transitioned into a jam band and became Electric Zoo, a project that deeply influenced Brent's love for guitar and musical expression. He was a part of Electric Zoo from 1990 until around 2000. Afterward, Brent took a break from music to focus on raising his family. However, his enduring love for music eventually brought him back into the scene, where he reconnected with high school friends to form Blue Collar Acoustic, marking the full circle of his musical journey.
Chet
Lead Vocals and Rhythm Guitar
Chet Konarski is from Macedon, NY, and started his musical journey as a drummer in the band Vital Signs with friends Brent McEwen and Gary Alloco. After joining the Air Force, he returned home in 1995 to become the lead vocalist and lyricist for the heavy metal band Neprarous, which he was part of until 1998. After a break from music, Chet returned in 2005 as the lead vocalist for White Lightning, covering rock and southern rock, before stepping away in 2007 to focus on family. Now, he’s thrilled to be playing music again with his high school friends.
Gary
Bass Guitar
Gary Alloco, originally from Palmyra, NY, and now residing in Macedon, NY, began his musical journey in 1985 as a member of Vital Signs, alongside Brent and Chet. As the band's bassist, Gary played a key role until 1990. Afterward, he shifted his focus to his career with the Pittsford School District. Upon turning 50, Gary received a bass guitar from Brent as a birthday gift, sparking a renewed passion for playing that felt like slipping back into an old, familiar rhythm. Today, Gary owns three bass guitars and has fully committed himself to the instrument. His musical journey has come full circle, as he now plays alongside his high school friends once again, bringing his love for music back to life.
Jon
Percussion and Backing Vocals
Jon is from Webster NY and has been playing drums for 10 years. He has a passion for percussion and recently began to sing backing vocals. Jon has played with some friends in a punk rock band. He brings a unique skill set to Blue Collar Acoustic.