What is Better Than Butters?
Gio
Gio is the captain of his dragons and caves club where he is head dice roller and hat wearer.
Several semi-local university-like establishments have invested thousands of hours not responding to emails about doing a study on Gio to understand how those birdlike vocals come from such a large, huge, massive freaking dork.
Jake Davis
Jake Davis is not actually a member of this band. He only hangs out with his mustache, who actually drives Jakes Davis’ body and moves his lips to make this face make sounds. And those sounds will have you falling in love with both of them instantly.
“Aw man, it’s great - it’s a great kisser too” said Davis when asked of his relationship with his lip caterpillar.
Farmer
Farmer spent the summer of 2005 entering as many hot dog eating competitions as possible (legend has it that number ranges up to 2). He learned that rules about keeping the hot dogs you don’t eat are not universally known.
In unrelated tidbits, Better Than Butters is not allowed to play within 1 mile of Marion County any more.
Nicky Stix
Nick is the only drummer in the world with a picture on this website.
It was discovered in 2007 that Nick has a rare disorder called “Photo Sensitive Forrest Gump Syndrome” in which any photo taken of him, his eyes will automatically close.
Bobby Bassline
Little did Nancy and Clive Bassline know, when they were raising their little Bobby, that some day, he would live up to the family name. He rounds out the sound. Bobby has been ‘involved’ in seven documentaries and he loves telling the story of why he ‘does not have a mailing address’. Bobby’s alter ego is Arby Axeman who travels town to town playing solo riffs over drive thru window order attempts.
Better Than Origin Stories
Better Than Butters isn't just a band; it's a musical rollercoaster, a fusion of talent, and a testament to the unifying power of music. Comprised entirely of members from the Severn River Rugby Club, this all-rugby ensemble has a sound as eclectic as their athletic prowess. From their electrifying live performances to their vibrant blend of Americana, infused with the spirit and camaraderie of their rugby origins, Better Than Butters is a force to be reckoned with.
The Origin Story
The band's journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic when Mark Farmer, the piano-centric maestro, moved to Maryland and joined the Severn River Rugby Club. It was there that he met his partner in crime, Nick Stratchko, and the seeds of Better Than Butters were sown. Their first performance at The American Legion Post 175, the rugby club's home field, was a hit, marking the beginning of their musical journey.
The Dynamic Lineup
As the band evolved, so did its lineup. John "Gio" Giovingo, known for his massive energy and captivating presence, joined as the lead vocalist and frontman, bringing his impressive vocal range and dynamic stage presence. Jake Davis, with his guitar skills and soulful vocals, added a new dimension to the band, solidifying their status as local celebrities. Greg Potempa seamlessly integrated into the band, enriching their sound with his bass expertise.
The Sound
Better Than Butters covers a wide range of artists, from Ray Charles and Jerry Lee Lewis to CCR, The Band, Motley Crue, and Guns N' Roses. Sprinkle a little bit of David Allen Coe and Dolly Parton, and you got yourself some jam, baby! With a growing library of dozens of originals, the band's piano-centric sound defies easy categorization. If you really feel a need to put a label on it, call it "Americana," but really, it's music that just feels good.
The Experience
These guys don't just play music; they create an experience. They rock every venue, backed by a thirsty crowd of 50 rugby players from their club. So, if you're in the mood for a band that's as eclectic as it is electric, Better Than Butters is your go-to. They're not just good; they're like really, really, really good.