The Parts That Make Up A Band
In this captivating black-and-white photo, Principal Son stands united, showcasing Jeff Wagrin (guitar), Ray Ward (keyboards, sax), Chris Carnavale (drums), George Kouba (bass, vocals), and Steve “Buddy” Bloom (lead vocalist, guitar). Formed in 1993, this eclectic ensemble quickly became a fixture across stages in New Jersey and New York City, charming audiences with their engaging performances.
The band’s name “Principal Son” was a heartfelt nod to Harold Bloom, Buddy’s father and respected principal of Hackensack High School. Buddy’s compelling songwriting combined with the exceptional musical skills of each member, created a sound that was both unique and broadly appealing, seamlessly blending original compositions with popular covers.
In late 1994, Wayne Duntin stepped in on drums after Chris Carnavale departed due to other commitments. Despite their growing success, the band faced a challenging moment when Ray Ward was diagnosed with brain cancer shortly after their memorable show at Kenny’s Castaways in NYC. The group compassionately chose to disband, prioritizing friendship and Ray’s health above all else.
Remarkably, Ray survived and continued to share his musical talent for years. Principal Son left behind a legacy of meaningful songs written by Buddy that remain as relevant and powerful today as when they first captivated audiences in the 1990s.
Rediscover Principal Son, a short-lived band whose diverse talents created a unified and timeless sound.
