A notion. A concept. A dream. The Luna Laval is not just a band, but rather the embodiment of an ideal: the active pursuit of quality, meaningful music. At their essence, these Old Bridge, New Jersey natives seek to change the homogenized music landscape prevalent today. The Luna Laval challenges the listener through intricate instrumentation, meticulously-crafted lyrics, and unmistakably organic live performances – allowing the music to transcend traditional genre-pinning and coalesce into a greater identity. Through remarkable chemistry, an unending desire to innovate, and their genuine passion for playing and composing, The Luna Laval seeks to not only impact the modern music scene, but leave a radiant, permanent impression.
Jakub Szczepaniak – Vocals, Guitar
As a member of The Luna Laval, Jakub doesn’t differentiate between limiting titles such as “rhythm” guitarist or “lead” vocalist, preffering to be categorized simply as a founding member. Stylistically, Jakub adds a distinctively bright guitar tone, a stable vocal delivery, and introspective lyrical themes to the mix. While insisting that nothing equates to the satisfaction he derives from playing and composing music, he identifies drinking (black) tea, making practical jokes, and traveling as other interests. Jakub lists Radiohead, The Smiths, Wild Beasts, Yes, and The Clash as primary influences. Jakub graduated from Rutgers University in 2012, with a Bachelor of Science in Finance.
Tom Risi – Bass
Whether through his prominent, resounding, intelligently crafted basslines or through pensive lyrical composition, Tom strives to add structure, cohesion, and continuity to The Luna Laval’s sound at large. Performing and arranging music aside, Tom enjoys writing, swimming, the New York Giants, and Kurt Vonnegut. Tom’s chief musical influences include The Dear Hunter, The Mars Volta, Foals, Kaddisfly, and Mastodon. Tom graduated cum laude from Rutgers University in 2012, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Public Health & Psychology, and a Certificate in Public Health Preparedness.
Andy Katz – Drums
Striking a balance between meticulously accented percussion and bombastic expression of energy, Andy emphasizes texture and volume dynamics in his drumming. In addition to organizing drum arrangements, he enriches the band with lyrics at once catchy and deeply personal. Outside of The Luna Laval, Andy is member of Zeta Beta Tau fraternity at Fairleigh Dickinson University, plans to pursue graduate education, and enjoys road trips. Andy’s primary influences include Minus the Bear, The Promise Ring, American Football, Mineral, and Braid. Andy graduated cum laude from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 2012, receiving his Bachelor of Arts in History.
Jeff Haberman – Guitar
Within The Luna Laval, Jeff employs refined, tasteful guitar work to layer the band’s sound. His supplemental passages provide ambiance and texture, allowing the songs to swell with tension and depth. Aside from his contributions to The Luna Laval, Jeff is a charter member of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity at Rutgers and an avid New York Yankees fan. Jeff cites Incubus, The Verve, The Kooks, Pink Floyd, and Red Hot Chili Peppers as his strongest influences. Jeff graduated from Rutgers University in 2012, receiving his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.
