Local drummer releases music video to brighten someone's day

Medical radiation technologist at Sault Area Hospital by day and a musician by night, drummer Phil Greco has put together an online music video to “brighten someone’s day.”

“[Music] can keep people positive through trying times, especially lately with the social symptoms from this pandemic,” says Greco.

“Music unites us through emotion and knowing universally we feel the same through music can be reassuring and empowering.”

Greco, who is the drummer for local prog-rock band Machines Dream, put together a side project including local and out-of-town musicians and filmed a music video.

“The video was actually in motion from a few months back as a fun project,” he says.

“Looking at the social climate lately, I'd say timing was on our side to brighten someone's day.

The video features a cover of The Outfield’s top ten 1986 hit Your Love.

In addition to Greco, the video features local musicians Brian Holmes (Machines Dream keyboard player/local music instructor) and Steve Myers (Odd Man Out and Parabol guitarist/local music instructor).

Greco looked to some former Sault residents, Scott Aultman (The Angry Pants) now based in North Bay, and Kevin Becker (IKONS The Kiss experience) now based in Calgary.

“Scott, Kevin and I were in a local cover band circa 2002 and they have since moved out of town,” says Greco.

“We managed to reconnect via social media.”

Greco also reached out to fellow musician Garth Rempel (Winnipeg Youth Chorus/music teacher), who he met and played in a band with while living in Winnipeg for work many years ago.

Kevin Becker was originally supposed to tackle lead vocals for the video but fell ill when it was time to film.

“Despite being sick, Kevin still sang backups on the song because he’s a trooper,” laughs Greco. 

It was Becker who reached out to Calgarian Steve McQueen (yes, his real name), to complete the line-up for the video.

McQueen, a veteran singer/performer from the music scene in Calgary, rounded off the project and captured the signature high vocals from The Outfield’s hit song.

“This was my first online jam video and I feel lucky to be graced with the talent that answered the call for the project,” says Greco.

“Although I've had the privilege of having played in the past with most of the musicians on the track, I was excited to have the opportunity to play with some new online friends as well,” says Greco.

“I'm just a regular guy trying to have a normal life, and doing whatever it takes to be happy. This made me happy. Thanks to Brian, Scott, Steve(s), Kevin, and Garth. You guys rock. It was a pleasure to jam with you guys.”

Here is Phil Greco and friends’ version of The Outfield’s Your Love to make your Thursday a bit better.